Cardiovascular Diseases

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Cardiovascular Diseases

Does menopause increase the risk of heart diseases

Before menopause, heart diseases are uncommon in women who do not smoke, do not have hypertension, hyperlipidaemia (excessive saturated fats in their blood) or diabetes. It is five times more common in men than in pre-menopausal women but once menopause has occurred, the risk of heart disease in women approaches that in men, suggesting a role for the menopausing in this changed risk.

The etiology of heart disease is complex and incompletely understood. However, several studies on the effect of premature menopause on the incidence of heart diseases suggest that earlier the cessation of ovarian function occurs greater the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A role for estrogen deficiency in the etiology of this disease is strongly suggestive.

How does menopause increase the risk of heart diseases

High plasma levels of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations protect the heart (cardio-protective), whilst those of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations increase the risk of heart disease. Before menopause, serum LDL levels are lower and HDL levels are higher. But after menopause, LDL levels increase significantly, and thereby increase the risk of heart diseases.

Do women run a greater risk of heart diseases than men

No. Before menopause, serum LDL levels are lower in women than in men, and serum HDL levels are higher. Following menopause, LDL levels in women rise but do not exceed the levels in age-matched men.

What is the role of the estrogen in preventing heart diseases

Estrogen in pre-menopausal women has a protective effect on cardiovascular disease, probably mediated through it's effect on the HDL:LDL ratio. But estrogen may work in other ways such as by a direct effect on blood vessels or by stimulating direct effect on blood flow in organs such as the skin, uterus, vulva and kidneys.

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