Premenopause

Several reproductive factors, including preeclampsia, preterm birth and early menopause, may increase risk for CVD in women, researchers found.

Among a large cohort of Canadian women, premature menopause and current use of hormone therapy were associated with self-reported depression, according to results from a study published in Menopause.

Most of last week’s top stories in cardiology were from Healio’s live coverage of the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions, which recently wrapped up in Philadelphia.

PHILADELPHIA — In a new study, women with natural and surgical premature menopause before age 40 years had a small but significant elevated risk for CVDs, researchers reported at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions.

Women with fewer total reproductive years may experience elevated risk for atrial fibrillation and subsequent ischemic stroke, according to findings published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology.

CHICAGO — Updated guidelines provide clear CVD prevention strategies for most patients, but barriers to optimal treatment in some patients remain, including issues related to sex, age, inflammation and adequate testing, according to a speaker.

A one-time measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone during pre- or perimenopause may serve as an independent predictor of imminent bone loss, particularly at the lumbar spine, during the menopause transition, according to findings published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.

Menopause typically brings with it a host of symptoms that can be unpleasant, at best, and at worst, can increase the risks for heart disease and early death. For women who go through early menopause those symptoms and health risks can be compounded, whether the transition is natural or due to surgery.