A new risk score, developed by researchers at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, accurately predicts the risk of major cardiovascular events in women. Published in *Radiology: Cardiothoracic Imaging*, the study introduces the Coronary Risk Score in Women (CORSWO), which categorizes patients into low, moderate, high, and very high-risk groups based on eight variables. This model proved to be more effective than other existing risk models in predicting heart attacks, strokes, and sudden cardiac death, particularly in high and very high-risk women.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women globally, but women are often underrepresented in cardiovascular research, leading to overlooked risks. Dr. Guillermo Romero-Farina, study lead author, highlighted the importance of risk stratification in women, as their clinical presentation of coronary disease often differs from men’s. The study analyzed data from 2,226 women, aged 40 to 93, who underwent myocardial perfusion imaging at Vall d’Hebron. The patients were followed for an average of four years, with some monitored for up to 10 years after experiencing a major cardiovascular event.
By combining clinical, exercise, and imaging-based variables, CORSWO provides a more accurate prediction of cardiac events in women, helping doctors target resources and treatments to those who need them most. Dr. Romero-Farina emphasized that this approach could lead to earlier detection and prevention of serious cardiovascular events.