2023-09-24 05:03:42
New Study Finds Earlier Menopause Not the Cause of Increased Stroke Risk in Women
A recent study conducted at the Medical University of Innsbruck has revealed that an earlier onset of menopause is not the causal reason for an increased risk of stroke in women. The study, led by epidemiologist and mathematician Lena Tschiderer, analyzed genetic data to draw this conclusion, although the exact reason behind the increased risk remains unknown.
The research involved analyzing data from over 200,000 women after menopause, examining the connection between the age at which menopause begins and the risk of stroke occurrence. This analysis included both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. The findings of the study were published in the prestigious “Journal of the American Heart Association” and involved collaboration with the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands.
Tschiderer emphasized that while there is a statistical connection between premature menopause and a higher risk of stroke, it does not mean that earlier menopause is the cause of this increased risk. To explain this point, Tschiderer provided an everyday comparison, stating that eating ice cream often in the summer is linked to an increased risk of sunburn but is not the actual cause of sunburn.
Nevertheless, the study did confirm previous assumptions that there is indeed a relationship between premature menopause and a higher risk of stroke. Tschiderer noted that the risk of stroke increases by ten percent for every five years of earlier menopause. Women who experienced menopause before the age of 40 were found to have a 42 percent higher risk of stroke compared to those who experienced menopause between the ages of 50 and 55.
Moving forward, the focus will shift to determining the actual reason behind the increased risk of stroke in women with premature menopause. Tschiderer expressed optimism, believing that the cause will eventually be known. Research will involve analyzing data on different proteins, which will be sourced from Great Britain. While estrogens were initially believed to be the cause, studies suggest otherwise.
In the meantime, stroke prevention in women with premature menopause is crucial. Tschiderer emphasized the importance of minimizing other risk factors, especially through adopting a healthy lifestyle.
This new study adds to our understanding of the relationship between menopause and stroke risk, paving the way for further research in this field.]
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