New Delhi, 15 May 2025: New research has found that men are twice as likely to die from “broken heart syndrome” compared to women, highlighting the importance of gender-specific heart health awareness.
Known medically as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, broken heart syndrome is a temporary heart condition often triggered by intense emotional or physical stress—such as the death of a loved one, job loss, or a traumatic event. While it mimics a heart attack, it’s not caused by blocked arteries, but rather by a sudden weakening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle.
Now, a recent study has revealed that men not only experience this condition less frequently than women—but when they do, their risk of death is significantly higher.
What the Study Found
The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analyzed thousands of cases of broken heart syndrome and found that men are twice as likely to die from the condition compared to women. Researchers examined data from over 100,000 patients across multiple years and discovered that although women made up around 90% of all diagnosed cases, men faced more severe complications and higher in-hospital mortality rates.
In addition to death risk, men were more likely to suffer from serious complications such as cardiogenic shock, where the heart suddenly can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. They were also more likely to require critical care interventions.
Why Are Men at Higher Risk?
Researchers believe several factors contribute to the increased risk in men. Firstly, men tend to be older and have more pre-existing cardiovascular conditions at the time of diagnosis, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, or diabetes. These underlying health issues may amplify the impact of broken heart syndrome.
Secondly, men are less likely to seek help for emotional or psychological distress, which may delay diagnosis and treatment. Since the syndrome is often brought on by extreme emotional triggers—like grief, fear, or anger—men’s lower likelihood of expressing or addressing their emotional state could worsen the condition.
Hormonal differences may also play a role. Estrogen, which is more prevalent in women, is believed to have a protective effect on the heart, potentially helping women recover more effectively from the sudden shock to the heart muscle.
What Are the Symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome?
Broken heart syndrome symptoms often resemble those of a traditional heart attack and should be taken very seriously. Key signs include:
- Sudden chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Fainting or dizziness
- Low blood pressure
Unlike a heart attack, broken heart syndrome does not usually involve permanent damage to the heart muscle and most people recover within days or weeks. However, in rare cases—especially among men—the condition can be fatal or lead to long-term heart issues.
Broken Heart Syndrome: How Is It Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis usually involves ruling out a classic heart attack through tests like ECG (electrocardiogram), echocardiogram, blood tests, and coronary angiography. Once broken heart syndrome is identified, treatment focuses on supporting heart function while it recovers.
Doctors may prescribe medications such as beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics to reduce heart strain and manage blood pressure. In most cases, the heart’s function returns to normal with rest and time.
This study underscores a vital public health message: emotional stress can have real, deadly consequences—especially for men. Heart health is not just about cholesterol and exercise; it’s also about mental well-being.
If you are a man over 40 and going through intense emotional stress, don’t ignore your symptoms. Chest pain, breathlessness, or unusual fatigue must be evaluated immediately. Early detection and treatment can be lifesaving.
Men need to understand that talking about stress, grief, or mental health isn’t weakness—it’s preventive care.
