Later-Onset Menopause Linked to Lower Heart Disease Risk

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, with unique risk factors and symptoms that differ from those in men. After menopause, women's susceptibility to cardiovascular disease increases due to lower estrogen levels, which traditionally offer some protection. Notably, heart attack symptoms in women can be non-classical, leading to delays in treatment, and conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome can heighten their risk. A recent study highlights that women experiencing menopause later in life (after age 55) tend to have healthier blood vessels and a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who undergo menopause earlier. Understanding these distinct factors is crucial for improving women's heart health outcomes. This knowledge could potentially inform new preventive measures and therapies tailored to women's cardiovascular health.