Early Menopause Linked to Higher Risk of Metabolic Syndrome

Emerging research indicates that women experiencing early menopause face a significantly increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a serious health condition linked to several chronic diseases. This finding, derived from a comprehensive study of electronic health records, will be presented at the 2025 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in Orlando from October 21-25.

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a cluster of risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and high triglycerides. These factors substantially heighten the risk for severe health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The condition can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, impairing blood flow and potentially resulting in organ damage and an increased risk of certain cancers.

To explore the relationship between menopause and metabolic syndrome, researchers analyzed data from over 234,000 women who underwent natural menopause between the ages of 30 and 60. Participants with menopause induced by surgical procedures, radiation, chemotherapy, or those on hormone therapy were excluded from the study. The results revealed an overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome at 11.7%, with a striking 13.5% among women experiencing early menopause compared to 10.8% for those with later onset.

The study concluded that women who undergo early natural menopause have a 27% increased relative risk of developing metabolic syndrome compared to their counterparts who experience menopause later. This correlation persisted even after adjusting for potential confounding factors such as medications, race, and body mass index.

Dr. Shefali Setia Verman, a lead author of the study from the University of Pennsylvania, emphasized the implications of these findings. “Our research highlights that age at natural menopause is not merely a reproductive milestone; it serves as a significant indicator of long-term cardiometabolic risk,” she stated. “Identifying early menopause as a marker for metabolic syndrome provides clinicians with a vital opportunity to recognize at-risk women sooner and implement preventive measures against heart disease, diabetes, and other complications.”

The implications of this research extend to clinical practice, suggesting that the age at which women reach natural menopause could serve as an essential marker for assessing metabolic risk in postmenopausal women. Early identification of these risks is crucial for reducing the likelihood of related health issues, such as insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Stephanie Faubion, the medical director of The Menopause Society, reiterated the importance of understanding these health risks. “This study reinforces the connection between premature and early menopause and a heightened risk of adverse health outcomes. Enhancing our understanding of these potential risks will improve our capacity to intervene early and mitigate these health challenges.”

Further details regarding the study’s findings will be discussed during the abstract presentation titled “Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome in Women with Natural Menopause” at the upcoming conference, aiming to shed light on this significant health issue affecting many women globally.