Heart disease risk typically increases with age, but for women, the years leading up to and through menopause present an even greater threat. A 2020 scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA), published in the journal Circulation, underscores the heightened cardiovascular risk during the menopause transition.
Dr. Nisha Sharma, director of women’s cardiovascular health and cardio-obstetrics at Inova Health System in Fairfax, Virginia, emphasized the importance of monitoring heart health during this critical period. “Menopause is a natural phase of life for most women in their 40s or 50s, but it’s never too early to understand how the hormonal and physiological changes impact your heart health,” said Sharma. “Being heart-healthy as you approach menopause may reduce risks later in life.”
Numerous studies presented at AHA meetings and published in the association’s medical journals highlight the connection between menopause and increased cardiovascular risk. For instance, a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA) revealed that approximately one in four postmenopausal women may develop atrial fibrillation—a type of irregular heart rhythm—during their lifetime, with stress and insomnia acting as significant contributing factors.
Another JAHA study pointed to a higher risk of heart failure among women who experienced late menopause, defined as after age 55. Additionally, research presented at the AHA’s 2022 Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference showed that women who naturally entered menopause by age 40 had a 40% higher lifetime risk of coronary heart disease compared to women who went through menopause later.
A 2021 AHA study also found that women experiencing very early menopause were 35% more likely to develop dementia later in life. Similarly, another 2021 study from the same conference noted that social isolation and loneliness may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 29% in postmenopausal women.
Sharma explained that menopause itself does not directly cause heart disease, but the transition triggers a number of changes that can affect cardiovascular health, including:
- Decline in estrogen levels
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased body fat around the organs
- Higher cholesterol levels
- Stiffening or weakening of blood vessels
“With more women living longer in the U.S., many will spend up to 40% of their lives postmenopausal. It’s crucial to monitor their health and develop targeted interventions to protect their heart health,” Sharma noted. “There is no one-size-fits-all solution; we need personalized, preventive cardiology care focused on lowering cardiovascular risks in women.”
The AHA, marking a century of service as a leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, offers guidance for improving cardiovascular well-being before, during, and after menopause. The association recommends following “Life’s Essential 8™” principles, which include regular exercise, a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and attention to mental health.
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