Lipid profile, inflammation, and oxidative status in peri- and postmenopausal women

To evaluate the effect of perimenopause and postmenopause on lipid profile, inflammation, and oxidative stress in women.

This cross-sectional study included 117 women (47 ± 6 years) classified as perimenopausal (n = 47), postmenopausal (n = 40), or non-menopausal (n = 30). In serum, we analyzed lipid profile, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1α (IL-1α), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Pro-oxidant status was assessed by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyls. Antioxidant defense was performed by analysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities.

Compared to non-menopausal women, triacylglycerols (TG) were similar, total cholesterol and LDL-C were higher in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, while HDL-C concentrations were decreased. TNF-α and IL-1α were higher in postmenopausal women, while CRP concentrations were elevated in both peri-and postmenopausal women (p < 0.05). TBARS and carbonyls were increased in peri- and postmenopausal women (p < 0.05). SOD and CAT activities were decreased in postmenopausal women (p < 0.05) and elevated in perimenopausal women.

Menopausal transition and postmenopause were associated with dyslipidemia, inflammation, and unbalanced oxidative status exposing women to cardiovascular risk.