High-risk, undertreated mystery heart attacks occurring more commonly in women

A mysterious type of heart attack known as MINOCA is more common and poses a higher risk than previously thought, especially for women, according to a new U of A study.

U of A study shows surprising number of patients with condition do not get necessary preventive treatment.

Lesley Young - A whole new category of heart attack, not caused by obstructed arteries, is more common and higher risk—especially in women—than previously thought, according to a University of Alberta study.  “We followed roughly 36,000 patients within a 12-year interval and found that close to a surprising six per cent have a heart attack without any blockage in the arteries,” said Kevin Bainey, a U of A interventional cardiologist who launched the study after seeing an increase in these mystery patients in his practice.