The RESCUe network registry monitors patients with STEMI up to one year after the inceptive event. Follow up is done in coordination with the general practitioner (GP). In this analysis of the database from July 2010 to November 2013, we looked at the impact of gender on High Authority for Health (HAS) clinical practice indicators in STEMI patients. We analyzed the characteristics and compliance with recommendations of prescriptions, lifestyle recommendations and dietetic hygiene in 1422 patients followed by their GP for at least one year.

The percentage of men (75%) was stable in time. In STEMI, women were significantly older than men (median age 74 years vs 60 years; p<0.001), they were more likely to have hypertension (60% vs 40%; p<0.001) and diabetes (20% vs 15%; ns) but less likely to be active smokers (22% vs 45%, p<0.001). 45% of them had a body mass index (BMI)<25 against 36% of men. One year follow-up showed an equivalent prescription treatment in men and women for betablockers (95% of beta-blockers in women vs 93% of me), antiplatelet agents (99% vs 100%) and statins (96% vs 98%).

Prescription of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors was lower in women (87% of women vs. 94% of men (p<0.01)). Women presented more intolerance than men (10.5% vs 5%). 28% of women underwent a cardiac rehabilitation program vs 48% of men (p<0.001), 33% of them were physically active vs 56% of men (p<0.001). 72% of women have benefited from lipid and glucose control vs 78% of men (p<0.05). Their diet was described as more balanced (79% vs 73%; ns). In 94% of cases, the GP was in contact with the patient’s cardiologist.

Some studies suggest a relationship to disease prevention and gender. We found some differences to the detriment of women regarding cardiac rehabilitation and physical activity. A thorough study of a larger cohort is needed. Continuous information of health professionals on the risk of gender bias should be pursued.