A new study found that men have a much higher chance of succumbing to so-called ‘broken heart syndrome.’
Officially known as Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (TC), broken heart syndrome is the result of physical or emotional stress brought on by a traumatic event, like the passing of a loved one.
According to the study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA), TC “is a reversible left ventricle dysfunction.” In women, the syndrome is usually brought on by emotional stress, whereas in men, it is generally triggered by physical stress.
Researchers examined nearly 200,000 patients with the condition who were over the age of 18 between 2016 and 2020. Of those, more than eight out of 10 were women. While women were far more likely to develop the syndrome, men were found to be twice as likely to die from it.
The researchers also found a higher prevalence with age, White race, and the highest income bracket.
Despite the seriousness of the heart condition, symptoms sometimes reverse within a few days. However, for many, TC can result in significant health problems. Of those examined in the study, the following complications were noted:
- Nearly 36% had congestive heart failure.
- Almost 21% of patients experienced atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).
- Over 6.5% went into cardiogenic shock, a life-threatening condition when the heart stops pumping enough blood.
- Stroke occurred in over 5% of patients.
- Cardiac arrest was reported in 3.4% of patients.
“The data clearly indicate that individuals with Takotsubo syndrome are at significantly higher risk for a range of serious cardiovascular complications,” the study concluded.
“Furthermore, there has been no improvement in any of the complications of interest throughout the years of the study. Further research on management and improvement in the care of these patients is warranted.”