The cardiac patient: a gender comparison via illness narratives

Aims. To compare responses to heart disease between women and men, aged 30–50 years, and to identify the factors influencing them in health and illness. Background. The quality of life and prognosis for women with heart disease are worse than for men. Methods. Participants were 30 men and 30 women who had coronary heart disease. The study was conducted using a qualitative method based on narrative investigation. Narratives were gathered using in‐depth interviews and were analyzed by thematic analysis. Data were collected in 2006. Results. Women often delayed seeking treatment. When they did seek treatment they were often not initially diagnosed as having heart disease. The recovery period for women was characterised by their quick return to daily home making before their physical condition permitted it. Conversely, men extended their recovery period and received family support. Men were strict in following the instructions of the health regimen, whereas most women ignored it. The women, compared to the men, received less support from their spouses and families, and they noted that social expectations concerning their role were high. Conclusions. The role of the cardiac patient is socially formed based on male characteristics and, as a result, men are legitimised and receive social support in all that relates to the disease. Consequently, men adhere to the health regimen, whereas women are less inclined to. Relevance to clinical practice. Improved disease models for women with heart disease are needed, as are specifically design rehabilitation programmes to meet the needs of women with heart disease.