Research shows menopause can impact heart health, and the American Heart Association in Missouri is urging women to stay informed and take preventive measures during this stage of life.
Heart disease kills more women each year than breast cancer. The transition from the reproductive to non-reproductive phase usually starts in the late 40s to mid-50s, and brings changes in menstruation.
Before menopause, women produce estrogen, a hormone that may help protect the heart. As women go through menopause, their ovaries produce less estrogen.
Cardiologist Dr. Mozow Zuidema at Boone Hospital in Columbia shared some of the symptoms to look out for.
"Mood changes, sleep changes, sometimes central weight gain, in their body weight gain," said Zuidema. "So, it can lead to some either overweight characteristics or even obesity and can change their cholesterol profile."
In addition to getting regular screenings, the American Heart Association recommends regular exercise, a healthy diet and good sleep - to improve heart health before, during and after menopause.
After menopause, 25% of women may develop irregular heart rhythms known as atrial fibrillation, often linked to stressful life events.
Zuidema said another important key to staying healthy is to seek treatment early on.
"The earlier you get treatment for menopause, the better the outcomes are," said Zuidema. "Certainly, if a woman is through menopause before she starts, for example - hormone replacement therapy - then there's already some bone density loss and other characteristics."
Statistics show that just a little more than 7% of women in menopause meet physical activity guidelines, and less than 20% consistently follow a healthy diet.
The Missouri Public News Service is a partner with KRCU Public Radio.
