Why does your risk for heart disease increase as you approach menopause?
Estrogen helps protect your heart because it keeps:
But, your ovaries start producing less estrogen during perimenopause.
The decline in estrogen = higher risk for heart disease
2) Metabolic syndrome increases your heart disease risk — and it’s more common after menopause
Metabolic syndrome is when you have at least 3 of the following:
3) Age plays a role
Getting older causes changes in the heart and blood vessels and can lead to heart problems
Heart disease is serious
Heart disease is the #1 cause of death for women in the U.S.
About 1 in 5 women die from heart disease
Black women are at higher risk for heart disease compared to other women
Did you know?
Vasomotor symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, are linked with a higher risk of heart disease.
Your risk of heart disease is 2x–3x higher after you reach menopause. But, it’s never too late to start protecting your heart.
Get your heart pumping
Physical activity is #1 on the list for good heart health.
Moving more helps lower your risk for heart disease and other conditions that can hurt your heart including:
Guidelines for physical activity each week
150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise like brisk walking (about 22 minutes a day)
or
75 minutes of vigorous aerobic like running
or
An equal mix of both
+Muscle-strengthening activities 2 days a week
Change your habits, change your heart
Lifestyle factors can prevent heart disease. These can include:
Quitting smoking
Eating a healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy weight
Getting quality sleep
Managing your stress
Getting regular check-ups
Keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure in check
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels
You can’t stop the hormonal changes that happen during perimenopause. But you can take steps to keep yourself and your heart as healthy as possible.
This educational resource was created with support from Pfizer, a HealthyWomen Corporate Advisory Council member.
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