Sex differences in pulmonary (arterial) hypertension: does it matter?

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review synthesizes the current prevailing theories behind the 'sex paradox' or 'sex puzzle' in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a disease marked by sexual dimorphism. To a lesser extent, we also review sex differences in other forms of pulmonary hypertension.

Recent findings: Although more females than males develop PAH worldwide, female sex is associated with improved right ventricular (RV) function and survival. We review the role of sex chromosomes and sex hormones and their relationships to genomic and epigenetic regulation, immune function, and RV function, sex-based differences in therapeutic response and social determinants of health and intersectionality with gender in PAH pathobiology, prevalence and outcomes. We include experimental studies and observational human data that have led to the study of sex hormone modulation as a treatment strategy in PAH, with recently completed clinical trials. In addition, we explore potential future directions to help understand the mechanisms that underpin sex biases in pulmonary vascular disease, as well as those that may inform potential therapeutic targets.

Summary: Survival in PAH depends on RV function, and females have improved survival despite increased prevalence for reasons that remain unclear. While knowledge gaps remain, recent advancements offer promise and many future directions.