Cardiovascular disease and arrhythmias: unique risks in women.

Women have higher risks for symptomatic arrhythmias and sudden death than men. A significantly higher resting heart rate and longer QT interval on electrocardiogram may be factors that predispose women to a serious form of ventricular arrhythmia known as torsades de pointes. Recent studies have demonstrated hormonal effects on the expression of cardiac potassium and calcium ion channels, indicating their possible regulatory role in the modulation of cardiac repolarization and QT interval. These results demonstrate a need for greater awareness and further research into the mechanistic differences between men and women with respect to arrhythmia and cardiovascular disease.