Early menopause correlates with a higher risk of serious heart problems. Researchers from Korea University College of Medicine in Seoul discussed the issue in the European Heart Journal.
In a large analysis, researchers reviewed medical records from nearly 1.5 million women, including about 28,000 who entered menopause before age 40. Among these women, heart failure risk rose by about 33 percent and atrial fibrillation risk rose by around 9 percent compared with women who reached menopause at the expected age. The differences persisted even after accounting for chronic illnesses, unhealthy habits, and lifestyle factors.
The rise in risk may result from factors that simultaneously influence cardiovascular disease and early menopause, as well as direct changes within the female body. The drop in estrogen during menopause affects how the cardiovascular system functions.
Estrogen deficiency, or hypoestrogenism, can harm blood vessels and contribute to atherosclerosis. With sufficient estrogen, the balance among lipoprotein groups is maintained and their protective effects are preserved. When estrogen levels fall, this protective function weakens. Estrogens also influence arterial tone and the blood clotting system, and age-related increases in clotting can occur.
Additionally, blood vessels lose elasticity, which can reduce blood flow to the heart and other organs, leading to functional disturbances. Some experts believe that seven years after menopause onset, the incidence of cardiovascular disease increases substantially compared with premenopause levels.
Healthcare professionals emphasize that cardiovascular risk rises with age for all people, but symptoms in women may become more evident after menopause. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important, with heart health in focus. Adequate nutrition and regular physical activity, along with routine cardiovascular checkups, can help lower the chance of developing additional conditions.
Even if menopause occurs earlier than expected, avoiding high-fat diets, quitting smoking, and reducing other unhealthy habits can limit risk. One in three women may develop some form of cardiovascular disease, and heart disease remains a leading cause of death for women, underscoring the importance of proactive prevention.
In women who experience early menopause, the risk of mood disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia may also be elevated. The connection between dementia and menopause is thought to involve vascular health, where insufficient blood flow can affect brain function.
Experts advocate careful health monitoring for all women, regardless of when menopause starts. A balanced diet, consistent physical activity, and regular medical checkups with a cardiologist are recommended to reduce coexisting health risks.
When lifestyle remains healthy through menopause, the chances of heart disease and stroke decrease. Prevention emphasizes regular exercise, about 150 minutes weekly, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, poultry, fish, and nuts, and limiting red meat and sugary foods and drinks. These dietary guidelines were explained by a clinician cited in recent reporting.
Annual health evaluations are advised after menopause. Women may undergo ECG, vascular ultrasound, pelvic and breast imaging, mammography, complete blood counts, C-reactive protein testing, lipid profiling, and, if needed, MRI. The goal is to monitor cardiovascular status and identify issues early.
Hormone replacement therapy can be used to offset estrogen deficiency during menopause, especially to help prevent coronary heart disease, hypertension, and metabolic disturbances related to lipoproteins and bone health. However, such therapy should not be started without medical consultation, and it is contraindicated for deep vein thrombosis, thromboembolism, certain cardiac conditions, or untreated high blood pressure. Estrogens play a central role in a woman’s life, and in some cases, estrogen therapy is warranted when no other contraindications exist.
Menopause is a natural physiological stage. Early symptoms include chills, sweating, hot flashes, headaches, blood pressure fluctuations, rapid heart rate, and sleep disturbances. If health concerns are not addressed, menopause can be linked to osteoporosis, joint issues, and cognitive changes in addition to heart problems and dementia.
Related posts:
The goalscorers of Lionel Scaloni’s cycle in the Argentina national team Early menopause and cardiovascular health: understanding risks and prevention Menopause Hormone Therapy and Dementia Risk: A Closer Look Menopause Hot Flashes and Heart Health: What the Latest Research Really Shows Reframing Postmenopausal Heart Health: Prevention, Symptoms, and Lifelong Care New findings link early menopause, delayed HRT initiation, and Alzheimer’s risk Menopause, Estrogen Decline, and Heart Health: Key Risks Dementia Risk Factors and Prevention Through Lifestyle Age and sexual life: conversations, changes, and healthy strategies for older adults Higher Blood Sugar Linked to Increased Cardiovascular Risk Even Without Diabetes New Findings Link Oral Bacteria to High Blood Pressure in Postmenopausal Women Estrogen Receptors in the Female Heart Link to Postmenopausal Obesity, La Trobe Study Finds