As October marks Menopause Awareness Month, the American Heart Association and The Menopause Society are drawing attention to a critical but often overlooked aspect of women's health: the link between menopause and cardiovascular disease. With an estimated 6,000 women in the U.S. enter menopause every day, understanding this transition is more important than ever. Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death in women, yet only 4 in 10 women recognize it as their greatest health threat. This discrepancy underscores a significant gap in awareness that healthcare professionals are eager to close.
Menopause itself does not cause cardiovascular disease, but the years leading up to and following it bring changes that can elevate risk. Women may experience higher cholesterol levels, increased body fat around organs, and stiffening blood vessels. By the time women reach menopause, approximately 90% have at least one risk factor for heart disease, according to Chrisandra L. Shufelt, MD, MS, FACP, MSCP, current board member and past president of The Menopause Society. She emphasizes that this period represents a critical window for prevention, where identifying risk factors early and addressing them proactively can protect cardiovascular health for decades.
Perimenopause, the transitional phase before the final menstrual period, often brings the most noticeable symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, weight gain, and palpitations. These symptoms can be disruptive, but they also signal an opportunity to focus on heart health. Many women spend about 40% of their lives in postmenopause, making midlife an ideal time to know key health numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose. Additionally, a 2026 American Heart Association scientific statement highlights that menopause and aging can accelerate chronic kidney disease, further compounding heart disease and stroke risk.
Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that after menopause, an estimated 1 in 4 women may develop irregular heart rhythms, known as atrial fibrillation, during their lifetime. Stressful life events and insomnia were identified as major contributing factors. Depression and sleep disturbances, common during menopause, have also been linked to increased heart disease risk. These findings underscore the need for women to prioritize sleep, manage stress, and discuss any concerns with their healthcare team.
To support women through this transition, the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women menopause resource center offers tools and information, while The Menopause Society provides evidence-based resources and a directory of certified practitioners at menopause.org. Experts encourage women to know their heart health numbers, stay physically active, eat healthy foods, prioritize sleep, manage stress, and learn their personal risk factors. As Jen Ashton, M.D., M.S., an American Heart Association volunteer and board member, states, 'Every woman deserves access to information, support and resources that help her make informed decisions and feel her best.' With the right knowledge and proactive care, women can navigate menopause with confidence and protect their heart health for the long term.
