US Heart Surgeon Explains Three Ways Menopause Impacts Women's Cardiovascular Health

Menopause marks the permanent end of a woman's reproductive years, diagnosed after twelve consecutive months without a period, and brings distinct risks for heart health. US board-certified cardiovascular surgeon Dr Jeremy London described this life stage in an October 5 video as a "perfect storm for increased cardiovascular risk for women." He outlined three specific biological reasons behind this vulnerability.

Blood Pressure And Cholesterol

The first impact is an increase in blood pressure. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, nitric oxide in the vessel walls also decreases. Nitric oxide normally relaxes blood vessels, so its reduction causes vessels to become rigid and blood pressure to rise. Alongside blood pressure, cholesterol levels also increase. The liver cannot clear ApoB particles and dangerous atherogenic lipoprotein from the blood as effectively when estrogen falls.

Fat And Lifestyle

Dr London noted that visceral fat acts as an independent endocrine organ, raising the risk of insulin resistance and further affecting cholesterol management in menopausal women. He advises using this stage as an opportunity to double down on lifestyle changes and seek guidance from a menopause expert.

Context

Menopause is a natural biological process that affects everyone with functioning ovaries as they age, typically occurring in middle age. Understanding the physiological changes linked to declining estrogen helps individuals manage long-term health risks proactively through medical guidance and lifestyle adjustments.