Differences in Symptoms of Intermittent Claudication Between Women and Men
Author Information
Author(s): Sigvant Birgitta, Lundin Fredrik, Nilsson Bo, Bergqvist David, Wahlberg Eric
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
Hypothesis
There might be differences in perception of IC symptoms, risk factor occurrence and extent of leg artery atherosclerosis between men and women that may influence diagnosis.
Conclusion
Sex differences in the description of IC symptoms may influence diagnosis even if objective features of PAD are similar.
Supporting Evidence
- Men with IC had more cardiovascular disease and a more profound smoking history than women.
- Women reported a lower walking speed and more joint problems.
- Women more often reported atypical IC symptoms despite similar ABI and walking ability.
Takeaway
Men and women experience different symptoms of leg pain when they have a condition called intermittent claudication, which can affect how doctors diagnose them.
Methodology
Cohort study with 5040 elderly subjects measuring ABI and collecting questionnaire data on medical history and symptoms.
Potential Biases
Potential under-diagnosing of IC in women due to atypical symptoms.
Limitations
Few statistically significant differences were observed, possibly due to small cohort size in follow-up.
Participant Demographics
Elderly subjects aged 60-90 years, with a median age of 71.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.09 for prevalence of IC between sexes; P < 0.01 for lower walking speed in women.
Confidence Interval
CI 6.5-7.1 for prevalence of IC.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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