Heart Risk Rises Sharply for Women After Menopause

Heart disease risk spikes sharply for women once they reach menopause, experts say. The surge is linked to a steep drop in estrogen, a hormone that protects the heart in younger years. Women who experience early menopause or have their ovaries removed surgically face an even higher danger. Dr Anupam Goel, senior director of interventional cardiology at Max Hospital, Saket, explained that natural, gradual menopause causes fewer symptoms, yet still leads to the worst cardiovascular outcomes compared with younger women. During the transition, bad cholesterol rises and the LDL particles become small and dense, making them more likely to block arteries and trigger strokes or heart attacks. At the same time, arteries stiffen, pushing blood pressure up – another major stroke and heart‑disease trigger. The body also grows more prone to inflammation. A noticeable shift in body fat occurs, with visceral fat increasing; this deep‑lying fat is atherogenic, raising inflammatory markers and adding cardiovascular toxicity. All these changes combine to raise heart disease risk during menopause. Dr Goel stressed that menopause is a natural phase and that a relaxed, healthy lifestyle can help women navigate it safely. He called this period a "window of opportunity" for positive health changes. Women are encouraged to take time for themselves, eat balanced meals and stay active. The recommended routine is at least four to five days a week of 40‑45 minutes of any exercise – dancing, aerobics, swimming or group classes – to support both menopause comfort and heart health. The article is for information only; readers should consult their doctors for personal medical advice.