Is Early Menopause a Silent Heart Threat?

A new study has shown that early menopause significantly increases the long-term risk of coronary heart disease in women. Although the short-term cardiovascular effects of premature or early menopause, defined as menopause beginning before age 40, were already known, this study evaluated its effect on lifetime risk in detail.

The researchers studied more than 10,000 women aged 55–69. At the start of the study, none of the participants had coronary heart disease. According to the findings, women who experienced premature menopause had about a 40% higher lifetime risk of coronary heart disease.

Genetic makeup, obesity, early onset of menstruation, environmental stress, and living conditions are thought to play a role in this process.

In conclusion, early menopause is not just a matter of reproductive health; it is a warning sign of increased cardiovascular disease risk in women.

Source

Freaney, P. M., et al. (2026). Premature Menopause and Lifetime Risk of Coronary Heart Disease. JAMA Cardiology.