The Significance of International Menopause Day: Importance of Cardiovascular Disease

The theme of International Menopause Day 2023 highlights the importance of cardiovascular disease for women. There is a strong link between menopause and an increased risk of heart-related health issues in women. During the menopause and post menopause your body has undertaken instrumental changes and it’s important to understand what this can mean. This blog provides education and awareness on the reasons why cardiovascular disease is a crucial topic in the context of menopause:

1. Hormonal Changes: During menopause, there is a significant decline in the hormone oestrogen, which has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. This hormonal shift can lead to changes in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood vessel function, increasing the risk of heart disease.

2. Post-Menopausal Vulnerability: Post-menopausal women are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to premenopausal women. In fact, the risk for heart disease in post-menopausal women approaches that of men!

3. Symptoms Overlap: Some symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes and night sweats, can be similar to the signs of a heart attack, making it important to distinguish between the two and seek timely medical attention.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Menopausal women often undergo lifestyle changes, including weight gain and decreased physical activity, which can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

5. Awareness and Prevention: With the IMS focusing on cardiovascular disease during International Menopause Day it promotes awareness about this heightened risk and encourages women to take proactive measures to prevent heart issues, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress.

Given the association between menopause and cardiovascular health, this theme serves as a critical platform for educating women about the need to be vigilant about their heart health during this life stage. It underscores the importance of regular check-ups, adopting heart-healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking timely medical attention when needed to mitigate the risks associated with cardiovascular disease during and after menopause.

If you are currently going through the menopause yourself or know someone who is make sure they are mindful and aware of the differences and the similarities between menopause symptoms and cardiovascular disease. Most important make sure you or they know when to seek medical advice and attention.

What can you do in the workplace?

In the workplace, education, trust and openness are key. Providing your employees with the right tools and equipment to support each other and feel comfortable to discuss the menopause, including any symptoms they may have is critical to creating the right culture.