Beyond the conventional risk factors in the management of atherosclerosis in women: a call to action for careful consideration of obesity and inflammation.

Abstract

Conventional risk factors do not completely explain the burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in women. Obesity and chronic low-grade inflammation are recognized as important contributors to atherosclerotic risk. This viewpoint explains the role of obesity-driven inflammation in the development and management of atherosclerosis in women. Abdominal obesity promotes a proinflammatory and prothrombotic environment that accelerates atherogenesis. Women with higher inflammatory biomarker levels and experience sex-specific risk-modifying stages, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, pregnancy-related conditions, and menopause, have higher risk for cardiovascular events, including atherosclerosis. We review evidence for antiobesity and anti-inflammatory therapies. Integrating obesity and inflammation into ASCVD care in women requires targeted screening, risk assessment, and sex-stratified research approaches. This viewpoint highlights the relation between obesity and atherosclerosis.