Early Menopause’s New Health Risk

Much attention is given to the symptoms of menopause—hot flashes and hormone fluctuations among them. For women who experience menopause before age 46, which is considered early, there is a newly recognized threat. Early menopause is associated with double the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke compared with women who go through the transition later, according to a new study at Johns Hopkins.

“Women who experience early menopause should work with their primary care physician or cardiologist to reduce or eliminate other cardiac risk factors,” says Lili Barouch, M.D., a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins. “The best ways to minimize risk are to maintain a healthy weight, be active and avoid or quit smoking.”

Additionally, the researchers suggest these tips.

• Keep cholesterol levels and blood pressure low.
• Take medications as directed by your doctor.
• Manage your diabetes, if you have the disease.

If you’ve experienced early menopause, ask your doctor how it could affect your health and to help you evaluate your lifestyle and hereditary factors for ways to reduce your overall risk of stroke and heart disease.

Free Seminar
The Heart of a Woman: Taking Charge of Your Own Cardiovascular Health
Monday, June 3, 6:30 - 8 p.m., in Columbia, Maryland

Join Johns Hopkins cardiologist Lili Barouch, M.D., as she discusses the importance of heart health for women. Learn how to reduce your risk of heart disease and identify key warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session. Refreshments will be served. Call 800-547-5182 to register.

24/7 Health Information from Johns Hopkins
To learn more about menopause and other medical conditions, visit hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary. For more information, appointments or consultations, call
877-546-1872.