Clinical Report: Link Between Menopausal Age and Cardiovascular Health Outcomes
Overview
This study investigates the association between age at menopause and cardiovascular health outcomes. Mediation analysis indicates that metabolic dysregulation may explain some of these associations.
Background
Understanding the relationship between menopausal age and cardiovascular health is crucial, as cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women. This study aims to clarify these associations and their underlying mechanisms.
Data Highlights
Age at Menopause
Cardiovascular Disease Prevalence Increase
All-Cause Mortality Increase
Cardiovascular Mortality Increase
1 year decrease
3%
3%
4%
Key Findings
Women with menopause before age 40 have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease compared to those with menopause at 50–51 years.
Each one-year decrease in age at menopause correlates with a 3% increase in cardiovascular disease prevalence.
All-cause mortality increases by 3% for each year decrease in age at menopause.
Cardiovascular mortality increases by 4% for each year decrease in age at menopause.
Mediation analysis indicates that total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, hypertension, and glycated hemoglobin partially mediate the association between age at menopause and adverse outcomes.
Findings from a hospital-based cohort support the NHANES analysis results.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest that clinicians should consider age at menopause as a significant factor in assessing cardiovascular risk in women. Monitoring and managing metabolic factors may be crucial in this population to mitigate cardiovascular risks.
Conclusion
This study explores the association between age at menopause and cardiovascular health outcomes, with metabolic dysregulation potentially mediating these associations.
