The influence of menopause age on gynecologic cancer risk: a comprehensive analysis using NHANES data

Menopause, a natural transition, affects women's health risks, including gynecologic cancers. Early menopause, linked to lower estrogen, may increase cancer susceptibility. This study analyzed NHANES data from 1999 to 2020 for 8,219 postmenopausal women to explore the relationship between menopausal age and gynecologic cancers. We used regression models and RCS models to assess the risk.

This study utilized data from the NHANES spanning 1999 to 2020, focusing on 8,219 postmenopausal women selected through stratified sampling. Variables including socioeconomic factors, health behaviors, nutritional status, and medical history were assessed in relation to participants' menopausal age and gynecologic cancer prevalence. We analyzed the relationship between menopausal age and gynecologic cancers (cervical, ovarian, and uterine) using multiple regression models. Additionally, we employed RCS models to evaluate nonlinear relationships between menopausal age and gynecologic cancer risk.

Our findings indicate a significant inverse association between menopausal age and the risk of gynecologic cancers. After controlling for confounding factors such as age, race, BMI, and lifestyle variables, a later age at menopause was associated with a reduced risk of cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers. The RCS model revealed a non-linear, low-L-shaped relationship, particularly highlighting increased cancer risks at younger menopausal ages. Subgroup analyses demonstrated consistent results across demographic and lifestyle factors, confirming the robustness of the observed associations.

This study reveals the link between menopausal age and gynecologic cancer prevalence. Early menopause is a significant risk factor for cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers. Our findings support tailored cancer screening based on menopausal age, potentially improving preventive care for postmenopausal women.