Metabolic Health Differences Among Women of Age-Based Pre-, Peri-, and Post-Menopausal Stages

To examine metabolic differences in women with or at risk of metabolic syndrome across 3 age groups used as a proxy for menopausal stages: premenopausal (PreM, <45 years), menopausal transition (PeriM 45-55 years), and postmenopausal (PostM, >55 years).

A total of 718 female subjects across 3 groups, PreM (n = 108, 15%), PeriM (n = 218, 30.4%), and PostM (n = 392, 54.6%), were included. Demographics, intakes of fruits, vegetables, and sugar-sweetened beverages, stress, and substance use were collected using self-reported surveys. Daily steps was assessed using accelerometers. Anthropometric (BMI, and waist circumference) and bioclinical data (blood pressure, fasting glucose, HbA1c, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides) were measured using a standardized protocol. Analyses included Chi square, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests appropriate to normality and variable structure.

Lifestyle behaviors and metabolic characteristics differed by group with more negative health behaviors (diet, stress, substance use) and metabolic characteristics (BMI, waist circumference, and HDL) in PreM (P < 0.05). Compared to PreM, PeriM had lower BMI and higher HDL levels (both P < 0.05). Women in PostM group had the lowest stress, physical activity, and BMI but highest systolic BP, HbA1c, and HDL compared to the other 2 groups (P < 0.05).

These results underscore the need for targeted menopausal stage-specific interventions to improve metabolic health and promote healthier lifestyle behaviors across the menopausal transition. Premenopausal women may benefit from early lifestyle and metabolic risk management, while peri- and postmenopausal women should prioritize maintaining physical activity and glycemic control.