Heart failure

Abstract

Heart failure is currently the most common malignant disease in all but the poorest nations. There is no sign that the epidemic is abating. Indeed, improved treatment of hypertension and ischemic heart disease may delay the onset of heart failure but ultimately, by improving survival, increase the prevalence of heart failure.1 Furthermore, as treatment for heart failure may double life expectancy of patients with this condition, this will increase prevalence further. Overall, heart failure is equally common in men and women2-7 but important sexspecific differences exist in its pathophysiology and, therefore, presentation and treatment.6,7 The purpose of this chapter is to describe the causes, consequences and management of heart failure in men and compare these with the situation in women.