Sex Differences in the Impact of Physical Activity Across the Spectrum of Cardiovascular Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To synthesize current evidence on sex-related differences in physiological responses, clinical outcomes, and implementation of exercise training across different cardiovascular disease phenotypes. RECENT FINDINGS: Physical activity provides benefits regardless of the patient’s sex, improves cardiovascular health and overall quality of life. Studies have found that women experience a relatively greater mortality risk reduction compared to men. Women gain greater cardiovascular and mortality benefits fromphysical activity than men, even with less exercise. Biological and hormonaldifferences shape distinct exercise responses and outcomes between sexes.Cardiac rehabilitation is highly effective for women but faces low referral andparticipation rates. Tailored, sex-specific exercise recommendations areneeded to optimize cardiovascular health in women.