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Kochersberger A, Coakley A, Millheiser L, Morris JR, Manneh C, Jackson A, Garrison JL, Hariton E. The association of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status on the severity of menopause symptoms: a study of 68,864 women. Menopause 2024; 31:476-483. [PMID: 38652870 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate if and how race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status (SES) are associated with the severity of menopause symptoms in a large, diverse sample of women. METHODS For this cross-sectional study conducted between March 24, 2019, and January 13, 2023, a total of 68,864 women were enrolled from the Evernow online telehealth platform. Participants underwent a clinical intake survey, which encompassed demographic information, detailed medical questionnaires, and a modified Menopause Rating Scale. The modified scale was adapted for ease of use online and is available in the supplementary material along with the full intake. Symptom severity was evaluated using a multivariate binomial generalized linear model, accounting for factors such as race, ethnicity, age, body mass index, smoking status, bilateral oophorectomy status, and SES. Odds ratios (OR) and CIs were calculated based on the linear regression coefficients. RESULTS Of the participants, 67,867 (98.6%) were included in the analysis after excluding outliers and those with unknown oophorectomy status. The majority of respondents identified as White (77.4%), followed by Hispanic (9.0%), Black (6.7%), two or more races/ethnicities (4.4%), Asian (1.2%), Indigenous/First Nations (0.8%), Middle Eastern (0.3%), and South Asian (0.2%). Notably, individuals identifying as Black (hot flashes OR, 1.91; 97.5% CI, 1.75-2.09; P < 0.001), Hispanic (skin/hair changes OR, 1.58; 97.5% CI, 1.45-1.71; P < 0.001), Indigenous/First Nations (painful sex OR, 1.39; 97.5% CI, 1.19-2.75; P = 0.007), Middle Eastern (weight changes OR, 2.22; 97.5% CI, 1.25-4.37; P = 0.01), or with two or more races/ethnicities (skin/hair changes OR, 1.41; 97.5% CI, 1.26-1.58; P < 0.001) reported higher levels of symptom severity compared with their White counterparts. Conversely, Asian and South Asian participants reported lower symptom severity. Even after incorporating SES into the linear model, racial and ethnic groups with lower SES (Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, and multiple ethnicities) exhibited slight shifts in OR while maintaining high statistical significance (Black [hot flashes OR, 1.87; 97.5% CI, 1.72-2.04; P < 0.001], Hispanic [skin/hair changes OR, 1.54; 97.5% CI, 1.42-1.68; P < 0.001], Indigenous/First Nations [painful sex OR, 1.74; 97.5% CI, 1.17-2.70; P = 0.009], multiple ethnicities [skin/hair changes OR, 1.41; 97.5% CI, 1.26-1.58; P < 0.001]). CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that the relationship between race and ethnicity and the severity of menopause symptoms is not solely explained by differences in SES but is itself an independent factor. Understanding and addressing social, cultural, and economic factors are crucial to reduce disparities in menopausal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Eduardo Hariton
- Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland, CA
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Avis NE, Crawford SL, Hess R, Colvin A, Neal-Perry G, Waetjen LE. The Role of Sexual Function in Quality of Life Among Midlife and Older Women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:426-434. [PMID: 38330428 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To examine how (1) partnered sexual activity, and (2) sexual functioning, contribute to global quality of life (QOL) and health-related quality of life (HRQL) among midlife and older women, and whether importance of sex modifies these associations. Materials and Methods: Women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), a multiethnic/racial cohort study, aged 42-52 at recruitment, were followed for ∼20 years. The Ladder of Life and Short Form-36 physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) assessed Global QOL (N = 3,263) and HRQL (N = 2,576), respectively. Primary predictors were (1) having partnered sexual activity (yes/no), and (2) sexual functioning among those with partnered sexual activity. Sociodemographic, health, lifestyle, and psychosocial covariates were included. Results: Importance of sex modified covariate-adjusted association of having partnered sexual activity with global QOL. Adjusted associations of partnered sexual activity with PCS and MCS were not statistically significant. Sexual functioning, among women with partnered sexual activity, was positively associated with global QOL (adjusted p = 0.03), regardless of importance of sex; unrelated to PCS; but positively associated with MCS (adjusted p = 0.03), particularly when sex was "very/quite important." Conclusions: Partnered sexual activity and better sexual functioning are related to QOL for mid-aged and older women, and are stronger when sex is considered important. Partnered sexual activity and sexual functioning are less consistently related to HRQL when adjusted for covariates, and importance modifies only the association between sexual functioning and MCS. Understanding the importance of sex to midlife and older women contextualizes the impact of sex on QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rachel Hess
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alicia Colvin
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Genevieve Neal-Perry
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - L Elaine Waetjen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Nguyen AH, Hurwitz M, Sullivan SA, Saad A, Kennedy JLW, Sharma G. Update on sex specific risk factors in cardiovascular disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1352675. [PMID: 38380176 PMCID: PMC10876862 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1352675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide and accounts for roughly 1 in 5 deaths in the United States. Women in particular face significant disparities in their cardiovascular care when compared to men, both in the diagnosis and treatment of CVD. Sex differences exist in the prevalence and effect of cardiovascular risk factors. For example, women with history of traditional cardiovascular risk factors including hypertension, tobacco use, and diabetes carry a higher risk of major cardiovascular events and mortality when compared to men. These discrepancies in terms of the relative risk of CVD when traditional risk factors are present appear to explain some, but not all, of the observed differences among men and women. Sex-specific cardiovascular disease research-from identification, risk stratification, and treatment-has received increasing recognition in recent years, highlighting the current underestimated association between CVD and a woman's obstetric and reproductive history. In this comprehensive review, sex-specific risk factors unique to women including adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO), such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm delivery, and newborn size for gestational age, as well as premature menarche, menopause and vasomotor symptoms, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and infertility will be discussed in full detail and their association with CVD risk. Additional entities including spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), coronary microvascular disease (CMD), systemic autoimmune disorders, and mental and behavioral health will also be discussed in terms of their prevalence among women and their association with CVD. In this comprehensive review, we will also provide clinicians with a guide to address current knowledge gaps including implementation of a sex-specific patient questionnaire to allow for appropriate risk assessment, stratification, and prevention of CVD in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H. Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Madelyn Hurwitz
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Scott A. Sullivan
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Antonio Saad
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Jamie L. W. Kennedy
- Department of Cardiology, Inova Schar Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Garima Sharma
- Department of Cardiology, Inova Schar Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, VA, United States
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Witkowski S, Evard R, Rickson JJ, White Q, Sievert LL. Physical activity and exercise for hot flashes: trigger or treatment? Menopause 2023; 30:218-224. [PMID: 36696647 PMCID: PMC9886316 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE AND OBJECTIVE Hot flashes (HFs) are a prevalent feature of menopause. Hot flashes can be bothersome and affect quality of life. However, HFs have also been associated with the risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, providing current evidence on the effect of therapies to reduce HFs can help patients and providers with decision making. This review provides details on the scientific evidence to date related to the effect of physical activity (PA) and exercise to alter the HF experience in women. METHODS The PubMed database was searched between June 2020 and June 2022 for currently available evidence regarding the relation between PA and exercise and HFs. Our analysis included randomized control trials on exercise training, epidemiological studies, and studies evaluating acute exercise on the self-reported and objectively measured HF experience in addition to systematic reviews on the topic published as of June 2022. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The majority of evidence from randomized control trials indicates that aerobic and resistance exercise training lead to a decrease in subjectively experienced HFs. The limited available studies on acute exercise indicate that a bout of moderate-intensity exercise may decrease objectively measured and self-reported HFs but acute increases in PA intensity above accustomed levels may influence subjective HF experience. Some evidence suggests that for those with depression, habitual PA may be an effective way to reduce HF symptoms. Weighing the available evidence, for people who experience HFs, engaging in regular moderate-intensity PA, including aerobic and resistance exercise, may be an effective therapy to reduce HFs and women should be counseled on the benefits of regular, moderate exercise. However, significant gaps in knowledge remain about the optimal exercise prescription, effectiveness for a diverse population, meaning of differences between objective and subjective experience, and mechanisms that lead to changes in HFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Witkowski
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Rose Evard
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | | | - Quinn White
- Department of Exercise & Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
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Prevalence and risk factors for depressive and anxiety symptoms in middle-aged Chinese women: a community-based cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:319. [PMID: 35906641 PMCID: PMC9338469 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01908-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depression and anxiety have become main public health concerns globally. However, risk factors for depression and anxiety remain unclear. This study was to examine the prevalence and risk factors of depressive and anxiety symptoms in middle-aged Chinese women. Methods This cross-sectional study, conducted in 2018, included 7,727 women aged 40–60 years from the eastern, central and western regions of China. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were determined by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorders-7, respectively. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for depressive and anxiety symptoms in relation to sociodemographic, lifestyle and menopausal factors. Results Among all participants, 19.5% (1 422/7 275) and 14.2% (1 035/7 275) of participants experienced depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively. The multivariable logistic regression models showed that age, household income, regular physical activity, chronic diseases, menopausal status, vasomotor symptoms, somatic symptoms and urogenital symptoms were associated with depressive symptoms, while place of residence, regular physical activity, chronic diseases, vasomotor, somatic and urogenital symptoms were associated with anxiety symptoms. Conclusion Depressive and anxiety symptoms were common among middle-aged Chinese women, and certain sociodemographic, lifestyle and menopausal symptoms have an important impact on the risk of depressive and anxiety symptoms.
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Trémollieres FA, André G, Letombe B, Barthélemy L, Pichard A, Gelas B, Lopès P. Persistent gap in menopause care 20 years after the WHI: a population-based study of menopause-related symptoms and their management. Maturitas 2022; 166:58-64. [PMID: 36058119 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the current management of menopause in France with regard to menopause-related and genitourinary symptoms, with a focus on use of menopause hormone therapy (MHT). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The ELISA Study is a population-based survey of 5004 French representative women aged 50 to 65 years. From July to August 2020, the participating women answered an online computer-assisted web interview on menopause-related and genitourinary symptoms and their management, including use of MHT. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Prevalence of menopause-related and genitourinary symptoms in postmenopausal women. Management of these symptoms, including the reasons for not doing so, management by health care providers, and use of MHT. RESULTS Among the 5004 selected women, 4041 whose postmenopausal status was confirmed were included in the final analyses. Of the untreated 3685 women, 87 % reported at least 1 menopausal symptom, with a significantly higher percentage of symptomatic women in the 50-54 age group (92 %, p < 0.05) than in the other two age groups (55-59 years: 89 % and 60-64 years: 82 %). 68 % of the surveyed women experienced on average 2.5 symptoms of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Using a visual analogue scale (VAS) from 0 (no impact) to 10 (high impact) to evaluate the impact of menopausal/GSM symptoms on their quality of life, mean VAS score was 5.9 (SD: 2.2), with 25 % of the women aged 55-59 years rating their quality of life between 8 and 10. 61 % of the surveyed women reported being regularly followed by a health care professional. 44 % of women reported never having discussed their menopausal/GSM symptoms with a health care provider. The main reasons were because menopause is "a normal part of women's lives", because it was not "necessary to do so", or their symptoms were "not serious enough". Only 242 women (6 %) were current MHT users, of whom 49 % were using estrogen-alone therapy and 71 % were using transdermal estrogens. Fear of hormones (35 %) and MHT side-effects (25 %) were the main reasons given for not using MHT. 62 % of the women reported that the decision not to take MHT was supported by their physician. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This large population-based survey confirmed not only the high prevalence of menopause-related and GSM symptoms in postmenopausal women within the first 10-15 years after menopause, but also the very low percentage of MHT users in France. Twenty years after the publication of the initial Women's Health Initiative (WHI) results, management of postmenopausal women is still characterized by unmet needs in menopausal care. Therefore, there is a strong need to educate the public and health care providers about menopause-related problems and possible solutions, including MHT, through dedicated educational programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence A Trémollieres
- Centre de Ménopause et Maladies Osseuses Métaboliques, Hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU Toulouse, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 70034, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1048-I2MC-Equipe 9, Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, 1, avenue du Professeur Jean-Poulhes, BP 84225, 31432 Toulouse cedex 4, France.
| | | | | | - Luc Barthélemy
- Stethos France, 1 place du Marivel, 92310 Sèvres, France
| | - Amélie Pichard
- Stethos France, 1 place du Marivel, 92310 Sèvres, France
| | - Bertrand Gelas
- LaboratoireTheramex France SAS, Tour Atlantique - 1 Place de la Pyramide, 92911 Paris La Défense Cedex, France
| | - Patrice Lopès
- Elsan Santé Atantique, 44819 St Herblain, France; Université de Nantes, 44093 Nantes, cedex, France
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Barkoot S, Saeed A, AlMetrek M, AlShahrani S, AِlHomedi H, AlShahrani A, AlQahtani O, AlShehri S. The Quality of Life of and Social Determinants Affecting Menopausal Women in Aseer’s Healthy Cities in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e31942. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Impact of the CBT-Meno protocol on menopause-specific beliefs, dysfunctional attitudes, and coping behaviors. Menopause 2022; 29:963-972. [PMID: 35881942 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A recent clinical trial demonstrated that a group cognitive-behavioral therapy protocol for menopause (CBT-Meno; Green et al. Menopause 2019;26(9):972-980) was effective in reducing menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor and depressive symptoms. The current analyses evaluated the effectiveness of CBT-Meno in improving menopause-specific beliefs, dysfunctional attitudes associated with depression, and menopause-specific behaviors. METHODS In a subset of participants from the larger trial, women assigned to CBT-Meno or waitlist and who had completed symptom, cognitive, and behavioral measures at least at baseline were included. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 12 weeks after baseline, and 3 months after treatment. Measures included the Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale, the vasomotor subscale of the Greene Climacteric Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory II, the Hot Flush Beliefs Scale, the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale, and the Hot Flush Behavior Scale (HFBehS). RESULTS As reported in the main study outcomes (Green et al. Menopause 2019;26(9):972-980), CBT-Meno participants reported greater improvements than waitlist in terms of vasomotor symptom interference and depressive symptoms (Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale, Beck Depression Inventory II; partial eta-squared [ η2p ] = 0.15-0.18), although not in vasomotor severity (Greene Climacteric Scale [vasomotor subscale]; η2p = 0.05). CBT-Meno participants reported greater improvements than waitlist in menopause-specific beliefs (Hot Flush Beliefs Scale; η2p = 0.08-0.12), dysfunctional attitudes (Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale; η2p = 0.09), and menopause-specific behaviors (HFBehS; η2p = 0.08-0.12). Within-group analyses showed improvements in CBT-Meno on all variables ( d = 0.38-1.26) except in cooling strategies ( d = 0.18). Gains in CBT-Meno were maintained from posttreatment to 3-month follow-up, although a decrease in positive coping behaviors was observed (HFBehS-positive behavior subscale; d = 0.99). CONCLUSIONS The CBT-Meno protocol is effective in improving menopause-related symptoms and a broader range of outcomes, including problematic beliefs about menopause, dysfunctional attitudes related to depression, and menopause-specific behaviors.
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Hormonal Agents for the Treatment of Depression Associated with the Menopause. Drugs Aging 2022; 39:607-618. [PMID: 35908135 PMCID: PMC9355926 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-022-00962-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Perimenopause marks the transition from a woman’s reproductive stage to menopause. Usually occurring between 42 and 52 years of age, it is determined clinically by the onset of irregular menstrual cycles or variable cycle lengths. Women are at an increased risk of depression and anxiety during perimenopause and the menopausal transition. Depressive symptoms experienced in perimenopause are often more severe compared to pre- and post-menopause. During menopausal transition, the impact of fluctuating estrogen in the central nervous system (CNS) can have negative psychological effects for some women. Traditional first-line management of menopausal depression involves antidepressants, with modest outcomes. The positive effects of estrogen treatment in the CNS are becoming increasingly recognised, and hormonal therapy (HT) with estrogen may have a role in the treatment of menopausal depression. In this review we will outline the prevalence, impact and neurochemical basis of menopausal-associated depression, as well as hormone-based approaches that have increasing promise as effective treatments.
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Cho Y, Chang Y, Choi HR, Kang J, Kwon R, Lim GY, Ahn J, Kim KH, Kim H, Hong YS, Zhao D, Rampal S, Cho J, Park HY, Guallar E, Ryu S. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Risk of Early-Onset Vasomotor Symptoms in Lean and Overweight Premenopausal Women. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14142805. [PMID: 35889762 PMCID: PMC9317337 DOI: 10.3390/nu14142805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in vasomotor symptom (VMS) risk in premenopausal women is unknown. We examined the prevalence of early-onset VMSs according to NAFLD status in lean and overweight premenopausal women. This cross-sectional study included 4242 premenopausal Korean women (mean age 45.4 years). VMSs (hot flashes and night sweats) were assessed using the Korean version of the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire. Hepatic steatosis was determined using liver ultrasound; lean was defined as a body mass index of <23 kg/m2. Participants were categorized into four groups: NAFLD-free lean (reference), NAFLD-free overweight, lean NAFLD, and overweight NAFLD. Compared with the reference, the multivariable-adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) (95% confidence intervals (CIs)) for VMSs in NAFLD-free overweight, lean NAFLD, and overweight NAFLD were 1.22 (1.06−1.41), 1.38 (1.06−1.79), and 1.49 (1.28−1.73), respectively. For moderate-to-severe VMSs, the multivariable-adjusted PRs (95% CIs) comparing NAFLD-free overweight, lean NAFLD, and overweight NAFLD to the reference were 1.38 (1.10−1.74), 1.73 (1.16−2.57), and 1.74 (1.37−2.21), respectively. NAFLD, even lean NAFLD, was significantly associated with an increased risk of prevalent early-onset VMSs and their severe forms among premenopausal women. Further studies are needed to determine the longitudinal association between NAFLD and VMS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoosun Cho
- Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea;
| | - Yoosoo Chang
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Korea
- Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Korea;
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (S.R.); Tel.: +82-2-2001-5139 (Y.C.); +82-2-2001-5137 (S.R.); Fax: +82-2-757-0436 (Y.C.); +82-2-757-0436 (S.R.)
| | - Hye Rin Choi
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
- Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Jeonggyu Kang
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
| | - Ria Kwon
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
- Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Ga-Young Lim
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
- Institute of Medical Research, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Jiin Ahn
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
| | - Kye-Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Korea;
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea;
| | - Yun Soo Hong
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (Y.S.H.); (D.Z.); (E.G.)
| | - Di Zhao
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (Y.S.H.); (D.Z.); (E.G.)
| | - Sanjay Rampal
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence Based Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Juhee Cho
- Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Korea;
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (Y.S.H.); (D.Z.); (E.G.)
| | - Hyun-Young Park
- Department of Precision Medicine, National Institute of Health, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju 28159, Korea;
| | - Eliseo Guallar
- Departments of Epidemiology and Medicine, Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (Y.S.H.); (D.Z.); (E.G.)
| | - Seungho Ryu
- Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea;
- Center for Cohort Studies, Total Healthcare Center, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 04514, Korea; (H.R.C.); (J.K.); (R.K.); (G.-Y.L.); (J.A.)
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (S.R.); Tel.: +82-2-2001-5139 (Y.C.); +82-2-2001-5137 (S.R.); Fax: +82-2-757-0436 (Y.C.); +82-2-757-0436 (S.R.)
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Harlow SD, Burnett-Bowie SAM, Greendale GA, Avis NE, Reeves AN, Richards TR, Lewis TT. Disparities in Reproductive Aging and Midlife Health between Black and White women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Womens Midlife Health 2022; 8:3. [PMID: 35130984 PMCID: PMC8822825 DOI: 10.1186/s40695-022-00073-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews differences in the experience of the menopause transition and midlife health outcomes between Black and White women who participated in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), a 25-year, longitudinal, multi-racial/ethnic cohort study. We identify health disparities, i.e., instances in which Black women's outcomes are less favorable than those of White women, and consider whether structural racism may underlie these disparities. Although SWAN did not explicitly assess structural racism, Black women in SWAN grew up during the Jim Crow era in the United States, during which time racism was legally sanctioned. We consider how we might gain insight into structural racism by examining proxy exposures such as socioeconomic characteristics, reports of everyday discrimination, and a range of life stressors, which likely reflect the longstanding, pervasive and persistent inequities that have roots in systemic racism in the US. Thus, this paper reviews the presence, magnitude, and longitudinal patterns of racial disparities observed in SWAN in six areas of women's health - menopause symptoms, sleep, mental health, health related quality of life, cardio-metabolic health, and physical function -and elucidates the contextual factors that are likely influencing these disparities. We review the strengths and weaknesses of SWAN's design and approach to analysis of racial disparities and use this as a springboard to offer recommendations for future cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobán D Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, United States, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104-2029, USA.
| | - Sherri-Ann M Burnett-Bowie
- Endocrine Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Gail A Greendale
- Division of Geriatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Nancy E Avis
- Department of Social Sciences & Health Policy Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Alexis N Reeves
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Thomas R Richards
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Tené T Lewis
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
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Okhai H, Dragomir L, Pool ER, Sabin CA, Miners A, Sherr L, Haag K, Dhairyawan R, Vora N, Sultan B, Gilson R, Burns F, Gilleece Y, Jones R, Post F, Ross J, Ustianowski A, Tariq S. Association between health-related quality of life and menopausal status and symptoms in women living with HIV aged 45-60 years in England: An analysis of the PRIME study. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 18:17455065211068722. [PMID: 35023404 PMCID: PMC8771737 DOI: 10.1177/17455065211068722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the health-related quality of life between mid-life women with HIV and the general population and to investigate the association between health-related quality of life and menopausal (1) status and (2) symptoms among women with HIV. Methods: Cross-sectional data of women with HIV aged 45–60 years from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause Study. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Euroqol questionnaire with utility scores categorizing health as perfect (score = 1.00), sub-optimal (0.75–0.99) or poor (< 0.75). Scores were compared between Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study participants and women (aged 45–59 years) from the Health Survey for England. Associations between health-related quality of life and menopausal status/symptoms in Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants were assessed using a multivariable two-part regression model, the results of which are combined to produce a single marginal effect. Results: In total, 813 women from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study were included (median age 49 (interquartile range: 47–53) years); the majority were of Black African ethnicity (72.2%). Overall, 20.9%, 43.7% and 35.3% of women were pre-, peri- and post-menopausal, respectively, and 69.7% experienced mild/moderate/severe menopausal symptoms. Approximately, 40% reported perfect health, 22.1% sub-optimal health and 39.0% poor health, similar to women from the Health Survey for England (perfect health: 36.9%, sub-optimal health: 25.2%, poor health: 37.9%). In multivariable models, we found an association between health-related quality of life and peri-menopausal status (marginal effect: 0.07 (0.02, 0.12)); however, the association with post-menopausal status was attenuated (marginal effect: 0.01 (–0.05, 0.06)). There remained a strong association between lower utility scores and moderate (marginal effect: 0.16 (0.11, 0.20)) and severe (marginal effect: 0.32 (0.27, 0.39)) menopausal symptoms. Conclusion: There were no differences in health-related quality of life between women with HIV (Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants) and women from the Health Survey for England dataset. Among Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants, health-related quality of life was reduced in peri-menopausal women and those with increasingly severe menopausal symptoms. Our findings highlight the importance of proactive assessment of menopausal status and symptoms to optimize health-related quality of life in women living with HIV as they reach mid-life and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajra Okhai
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Erica Rm Pool
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Caroline A Sabin
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alec Miners
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Katharina Haag
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rageshri Dhairyawan
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nina Vora
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Binta Sultan
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Richard Gilson
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Fiona Burns
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- Lawson Unit, Brighton & Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Rachael Jones
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Frank Post
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Ross
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Shema Tariq
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK.,Mortimer Market Centre, Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Wang XY, Wang LH, Di JL, Zhang XS, Zhao GL. Association of menopausal status and symptoms with depressive symptoms in middle-aged Chinese women. Climacteric 2021; 25:453-459. [PMID: 34783275 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1998435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine the association of menopausal status and symptoms with depressive symptoms. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional survey recruited 6745 women aged 40-55 years in the eastern, central and western regions of China in 2018. Menopausal status was categorized into reproductive stage, perimenopause or postmenopause according to the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop classification. Menopausal symptoms were determined by the modified Kupperman Menopausal Index and classified as none (total score < 15), mild (15 ≤ total score ≤ 24) or moderate to severe (total score ≥ 25). Logistic regression models were used to examine the associations of menopausal status and symptoms with depressive symptoms assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. RESULTS The prevalence of depressive symptoms among women in the reproductive stage, perimenopause and postmenopause was 15.4%, 23.9% and 22.8%, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, perimenopause (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.47) and postmenopause (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.04-1.58) were associated with higher risk for depressive symptoms than during the reproductive stage. Mild (OR = 5.55, 95% CI: 4.68-6.59) and moderate-to-severe (OR = 14.77, 95% CI: 10.94-19.94) menopausal symptoms were associated with increased likelihood of depressive symptoms compared to the group reporting no menopausal symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Menopausal status and symptoms were independently associated with the risk of depressive symptoms in middle-aged Chinese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Y Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - L H Wang
- National Center for Chronic and Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - J L Di
- National Centre for Women and Children's Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - X S Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - G L Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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14
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McLeod GFH, Cleland L, Welch J, Spittlehouse JK, Fenton A, Boden JM, Horwood LJ. Menopause status and climacteric symptoms in a birth cohort of mid-life New Zealand women. Climacteric 2021; 25:271-277. [PMID: 34269148 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1948005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little current research on the transition to natural menopause among contemporary groups of mid-life women at age 40 years. OBJECTIVE This study reports on female members of the Christchurch Health and Development Study cohort. This research aimed to: document the menopause status, reproductive outcomes and climacteric symptoms of the women at age 40 years; examine the associations between menopause status and concurrent measures of psychosocial and economic well-being; and document the associations between menopause status and potential predictors of menopause reflecting childhood, family and individual factors prior to age 40 years. METHODS The Christchurch Health and Development Study is a longitudinal, representative, prospective cohort of 1265 babies (630 females) born in New Zealand in 1977. At age 40 years, 470 women (who had not experienced surgical menopause) were interviewed on their menopause status, climacteric symptoms and associated factors. RESULTS The majority of women were premenopausal, around 20% were perimenopausal and 2% were postmenopausal. Statistically significant associations were found reflecting higher rates of diagnosed reproductive disorder, climacteric symptoms, low occupational status, non-heterosexual sexuality and exposure to childhood sexual abuse amongst both perimenopausal and postmenopausal women at age 40 years. CONCLUSION These data will inform directions for future data collection and analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- G F H McLeod
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - L Cleland
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - J Welch
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - J K Spittlehouse
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - A Fenton
- Oxford Women's Health, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - J M Boden
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - L J Horwood
- Christchurch Health and Development Study, Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to characterize the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life in a sample of healthy midlife women aged 40 to 65 years. METHODS Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured with a VO2max test. Quality of life was assessed with the menopause-specific Utian Quality of Life scale (UQOL). The UQOL measures overall quality of life, which comprises health, emotional, occupational, and sexual domains. Simple and multiple linear regression models were built to analyze relationships between cardiorespiratory fitness and overall quality of life as well as the separate UQOL domains. RESULTS Forty-nine women with an average age of 52.5 years were included in the analysis. In simple linear models, cardiorespiratory fitness was related to overall (R2 = 0.34, P < 0.001), health (R2 = 0.55, P < 0.001), emotional (R2 = 0.08, P = 0.05), and occupational (R2 = 0.09, P = 0.03) quality of life. In multiple regression models, cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with overall (P < 0.01) and health (P < 0.001) quality of life, after controlling for physical activity, age, body mass index, and time sedentary. CONCLUSIONS Higher cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with better quality of life during midlife, particularly in the health domain. Increasing cardiorespiratory fitness may be a useful means to promote quality of life in this population.
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Cortés YI, Marginean V, Berry D. Physiologic and psychosocial changes of the menopause transition in US Latinas: a narrative review. Climacteric 2020; 24:214-228. [PMID: 33174466 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2020.1834529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Latinos comprise the fastest-growing minority group in the USA, with Hispanic women (Latinas) constituting 17% of women aged 45-54 years. The menopause transition (MT) is associated with many physiological, behavioral, and psychosocial changes that can affect disease risk in women. While several epidemiologic investigations have enhanced our understanding of the MT, to date, menopause research has mostly focused on non-Latina White women. As a consequence, there is a dearth of information on strategies for managing menopause-related issues in Latinas and important factors to consider to provide culturally appropriate care and promote lifestyles that may reduce adverse health outcomes. This narrative review summarizes existing evidence of the MT in Latinas, with a focus on hormonal alterations, menopausal symptoms, mental health, cognition, and cardiometabolic health. The clinical and research implications of the current literature will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y I Cortés
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - V Marginean
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - D Berry
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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17
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Tang R, Luo M, Li J, Peng Y, Wang Y, Liu B, Liu G, Wang Y, Lin S, Chen R. Relationships Between Vasomotor Symptoms and Mood in Midlife Urban Chinese Women: Observations in a Prospective Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5897029. [PMID: 32841324 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT During the menopausal transition, there is a greater likelihood of the prevalence of various bothersome symptoms, including vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and mood symptoms. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association among bothersome VMS and symptoms of anxiety and depression in Chinese women during perimenopause and early in menopause. DESIGN, PATIENTS, SETTING, AND INTERVENTIONS This study included 430 midlife Chinese women who had experienced natural menopause and were followed up for 10 years. A structured questionnaire was provided annually, comprising the VMS Bother Score (range 1-8) from the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and other physical and behavioral factors. RESULTS Among the 430 women evaluated, 78.8% had experienced VMS during long-term follow-up. The overall level of VMS bother score was relatively low (1.92 ± 1.32). Both anxiety and depressive symptoms were significantly associated with VMS bother. After adjusting for potential covariates, the association between anxiety or depression symptoms and VMS bother remained highly significant. Menopausal stage, body mass index, general health, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol were independent contributors to VMS. In time-lagged (1-year) models, VMS bother scores significantly predicted the risk of symptoms of both anxiety and depression the following year. In contrast, anxiety symptoms, rather than depressive symptoms, could predict VMS bother the following year. CONCLUSION The prevalence of VMS in our cohort was higher than has been previously reported; however, the overall level of bother was relatively low. This study demonstrated a strong relationship between VMS bother and mood symptoms in Chinese women progressing from perimenopause through natural menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyi Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yajing Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaifen Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shouqing Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Li J, Liu B, Tang R, Luo M, Li HJ, Peng Y, Wang Y, Liu G, Lin S, Chen R. Relationship between vasomotor symptoms and metabolic syndrome in Chinese middle-aged women. Climacteric 2020; 24:151-156. [PMID: 33103941 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2020.1789094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to find the associations between vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Chinese middle-aged women in a cross-sectional study. METHODS A total of 675 participants were recruited from an urban Chinese community. MetS was defined by the 2009 criteria of the Joint Interim Statement. VMS including hot flashes and sweats, blood pressure, weight, height, waist circumference (WC), serum glucose, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), estradiol, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were collected. RESULTS The presence of hot flashes was independently associated with the risk of MetS after adjusting for age, menopausal status, FSHlog, estradiollog, and physical activity (odds ratio: 1.98, 95% confidence interval: 1.21-3.24, p = 0.006). Both hot flashes and sweats were also independently associated with WC (for hot flashes, p = 0.016; and for sweats, p = 0.007) and triglycerides (for hot flashes, p = 0.041; and for sweats, p = 0.014) significantly. However, VMS were not significantly associated with blood pressure, glucose, HDL, and LDL. CONCLUSION Women with hot flashes had a higher risk of MetS. Both hot flashes and sweats were related to a higher amount of central fat indicated by WC and higher triglycerides, but were not related to blood pressure, glucose, and HDL in Chinese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - B Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - R Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - M Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - H J Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Y Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Y Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - G Liu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - S Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - R Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Menopausal Symptoms and Perimenopausal Healthcare-Seeking Behavior in Women Aged 40-60 Years: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey in Shanghai, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082640. [PMID: 32290565 PMCID: PMC7215590 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to specify prevalence and severity of menopausal symptoms among middle-aged women and to understand the factors associated with women’s perimenopausal healthcare-seeking behavior in Shanghai, China. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out involving 3147 participants aged 40–60 years. A combination of stratified sampling and quota sampling was used. Out of the total 16 districts in Shanghai, 7 were purposefully selected in consideration of covering both central and suburban areas, population distribution, and willingness to participate. Two communities were randomly selected in each of six districts. Four communities were randomly selected in the 7th district considering the relatively low coverage of central population in the sampling frame. Eligible women were recruited continuously according to the house number and invited to participate in the study until 200 participants were recruited in each community. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect information including sociodemographic data, menopausal symptoms, and experiences in seeking perimenopausal healthcare. The severity of menopausal symptoms was assessed with the modified Kupperman menopausal index (mKMI). The mean age of all the participants was 51 years. 33.13% of the participants were premenopausal, 14.52% were perimenopausal, and 52.35% were postmenopausal. The total prevalence of menopausal symptoms was 73.8%, while among the perimenopausal women, the symptoms were the most common (81.70%). The top three reported symptoms were fatigue (38.08%), hot flushes and sweating (33.65%), and joint ache (28.81%). Perimenopausal and postmenopausal participants had a higher score of the mKMI than premenopausal women (p < 0.01). Of the women who had symptoms, 25.97% had sought healthcare. A logistic regression model revealed that employment, menstruation status, and the mKMI were significantly associated with healthcare-seeking behaviors (p < 0.01). We concluded that prevalence of menopausal symptoms was relatively high among middle-aged women, with perimenopausal women showing the highest level. However, only a small percentage of the participants sought healthcare. Carrying out health education may be a measure to improve the healthcare-seeking behavior.
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He Q, Ren Y, Wang Y, Zhang F, Zhang S. The efficacy and safety of acupuncture for perimenopause symptom compared with different sham acupuncture control groups: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e19366. [PMID: 32150082 PMCID: PMC7478674 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000019366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perimenopause is a period that every woman must go through, most people are more or less affected by perimenopausal symptoms, it to affect women's health, work, life, and economy. As acupuncture treatment is more and more increasing in perimenopausal symptoms, there have also been many clinical trials about it. But the results of the trials are inconsistent. Therefore, we will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the safety and efficacy of perimenopausal symptoms treated with acupuncture. METHODS The protocol followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols. RCT study on different acupuncture interventions for perimenopausal symptoms will be searched in 8 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the web of science, CBM, CNKI, WAN FANG, and VIP). Besides, the search will also be performed on the clinical trial research platform if necessary. The primary outcome that will be extracted: the Flushes per 24 hours, the Frequency of hot flashes, the severity of hot flashes, the menopause-related symptom score, the treatment efficacy, the adverse event. Endnote software X8 will be used for study selection, STATA 13.0 and Review Manager software 5.3 will be used for analysis and synthesis. These studies selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment will be conducted by 2 independent reviewers. RESULTS This study will provide the results: 1. the primary and secondary outcome indicators of different acupuncture intervention measures (traditional hand acupuncture, moxibustion, ear acupuncture, laser, acupressure points) for perimenopausal symptoms. 2. The effects of different control groups (medicine control, routine care, waiting, and sham acupuncture control) on the analysis results will be reported, especially the effects of different sham acupuncture control (invasive/noninvasive) on the analysis results. CONCLUSION This systematic review and meta-analysis study hopes to provide useful evidence for better use of different types of acupuncture in treat perimenopausal symptoms and better design of control groups in related clinical trials. In addition, the research conclusion will be published in peer journals.OSF REGISTRATION NUMBER DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/VZCKU Ethics and dissemination This conclusion of the study will be published in peer journals. The ethical approval is not required because there is no direct involvement of human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiujun He
- College of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Yajing Ren
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | | | - Feng Zhang
- College of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Sanyin Zhang
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Costanian C, Zangiabadi S, Bahous SA, Deonandan R, Tamim H. Reviewing the evidence on vasomotor symptoms: the role of traditional and non-traditional factors. Climacteric 2020; 23:213-223. [DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2019.1711051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Costanian
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - S. Zangiabadi
- School of Kinesiology & Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - S. A. Bahous
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - R. Deonandan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - H. Tamim
- School of Kinesiology & Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Slopien R, Owecki M, Slopien A, Bala G, Meczekalski B. Climacteric symptoms are related to thyroid status in euthyroid menopausal women. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:75-80. [PMID: 31392574 PMCID: PMC6952338 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-019-01078-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climacteric symptoms are a variety of disturbing complaints occurring during menopausal transition, many of which may be influenced by hormonal abnormalities other than related to sex steroids. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, we investigated the association between the intensity of climacteric symptoms measured with the Kupperman index and a thyroid status. MATERIAL AND METHODS We evaluated by measuring serum thyrotropin (TSH), and free thyroxine (fT4) 202 euthyroid women admitted to the Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences because of climacteric symptoms. Patients were both in perimenopause (n = 74) and postmenopause (n = 128), with no history of thyroid disorders. RESULTS Results presented as the mean value and standard deviation were as follows: age 54.2 ± 4.9 years, BMI 26.8 ± 4.6 kg/m2, Kupperman index 26 ± 13.1 points, TSH 2.4 ± 2.6 mU/l, fT4 1.2 ± 0.37 ng/dl. We observed a negative correlation between fT4 and the time since the last menses (R = - 0.38; p = 0.02) as well as between serum TSH concentration and sweating (R = - 0.18; p = 0.03), general weakness (R = - 0.17; p = 0.03), and palpitation (R = - 0.18; p = 0.02) and a positive correlation between fT4 and nervousness (R = 0.34; p = 0.007) and palpitations (R = 0.25; p = 0.04). In the perimenopausal subgroup, there was a positive correlation between fT4 and general weakness (R = 0.42; p = 0.03), palpitations (R = 0.50; p = 0.009), and paresthesia (R = 0.46; p = 0.01). In the postmenopausal subgroup, there was a negative correlation between TSH and sweating (R = - 0.21; p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Menopausal symptoms are related to thyroid status in euthyroid menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Slopien
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | - M Owecki
- Department of Public Health, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - A Slopien
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - G Bala
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - B Meczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Thurston RC, Kuller LH, Edmundowicz D, Matthews KA. History of hot flashes and aortic calcification among postmenopausal women. Menopause 2019; 25:1291-1296. [PMID: 30358725 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopausal hot flashes are considered largely a quality-of-life issue. However, emerging research also links hot flashes to cardiovascular risk. In some investigations, this risk is particularly apparent among women using hormone therapy. The aim of this study was to determine whether a longer history of reported hot flashes over the study period was associated with greater aortic and coronary artery calcification. Interactions with hormone therapy use were examined in an exploratory fashion. METHODS Participants included 302 women participating in the Healthy Women Study, a longitudinal study of cardiovascular risk during perimenopause and postmenopause, which was initiated in 1983. Hot flashes (any/none) were assessed when women were 1, 2, 5, and 8 years postmenopausal. Electron beam tomography measures of coronary artery calcification and aortic calcification were completed in 1997-2004. Associations between the number of visits with report of hot flashes, divided by the number of visits attended, and aortic or coronary artery calcification (transformed) were examined in linear regression models. Interactions by hormone therapy use were evaluated. RESULTS Among women using hormone therapy, a longer history of reported hot flashes was associated with increased aortic calcification, controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors (b = 2.87, SE = 1.21, P < 0.05). There were no significant associations between history of hot flashes and coronary artery calcification. CONCLUSIONS Among postmenopausal women using hormone therapy, a longer history of reported hot flashes measured prospectively was associated with increased aortic calcification, controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Hot flashes may signal adverse cardiovascular changes among certain postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Thurston
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine.,Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health
| | - Lewis H Kuller
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health
| | - Daniel Edmundowicz
- Cardiovascular Institute, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Karen A Matthews
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine.,Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health
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24
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Karanth L, Chuni N, Nair NS. Antidepressants for menopausal symptoms. Hippokratia 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laxminarayan Karanth
- Melaka Manipal Medical College; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Bukit Baru, Jalan Batu Hampar Melaka Malaysia 75150
| | - Neena Chuni
- Melaka Manipal Medical College; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Bukit Baru, Jalan Batu Hampar Melaka Malaysia 75150
| | - N Sreekumaran Nair
- Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) (Institution of National Importance Under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India); Department of Medical Biometrics & Informatics (Biostatistics); 4th Floor, Administrative Block Dhanvantri Nagar Puducherry India 605006
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25
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Li J, Luo M, Tang R, Sun X, Wang Y, Liu B, Cui J, Liu G, Lin S, Chen R. Vasomotor symptoms in aging Chinese women: findings from a prospective cohort study. Climacteric 2019; 23:46-52. [PMID: 31269826 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2019.1628734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - M. Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - R. Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - X. Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Y. Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - B. Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - J. Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - G. Liu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - S. Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - R. Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Bromberger JT, Schott LL, Avis NE, Crawford SL, Harlow SD, Joffe H, Kravitz HM, Matthews KA. Psychosocial and health-related risk factors for depressive symptom trajectories among midlife women over 15 years: Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Psychol Med 2019; 49:250-259. [PMID: 29622056 PMCID: PMC6545593 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291718000703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychosocial and health-related risk factors for depressive symptoms are known. It is unclear if these are associated with depressive symptom patterns over time. We identified trajectories of depressive symptoms and their risk factors among midlife women followed over 15 years. METHODS Participants were 3300 multiracial/ethnic women enrolled in a multisite longitudinal menopause and aging study, Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. Biological, psychosocial, and depressive symptom data were collected approximately annually. Group-based trajectory modeling identified women with similar longitudinal patterns of depressive symptoms. Trajectory groups were compared on time-invariant and varying characteristics using multivariable multinomial analyses and pairwise comparisons. RESULTS Five symptom trajectories were compared (50% very low; 29% low; 5% increasing; 11% decreasing; 5% high). Relative to whites, blacks were less likely to be in the increasing trajectory and more likely to be in the decreasing symptom trajectory and Hispanics were more likely to have a high symptom trajectory than an increasing trajectory. Psychosocial/health factors varied between groups. A rise in sleep problems was associated with higher odds of having an increasing trajectory and a rise in social support was associated with lower odds. Women with low role functioning for 50% or more visits had three times the odds of being in the increasing symptom group. CONCLUSIONS Changes in psychosocial and health characteristics were related to changing depressive symptom trajectories. Health care providers need to evaluate women's sleep quality, social support, life events, and role functioning repeatedly during midlife to monitor changes in these and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce T. Bromberger
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Laura L. Schott
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nancy E. Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sybil L. Crawford
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sioban D. Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hadine Joffe
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Howard M. Kravitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Preventive Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Karen A. Matthews
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Dugan SA, Gabriel KP, Lange-Maia BS, Karvonen-Gutierrez C. Physical Activity and Physical Function: Moving and Aging. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2018; 45:723-736. [PMID: 30401553 PMCID: PMC6226270 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Evidence supports that the physical disablement process starts earlier than previously thought, in midlife when women still have many years to live. Physical activity participation and interventions have been successful in preventing disability in older adults and may be promising for maintaining function at younger ages. Changing the conversation to more relevant topics in midlife, like positive changes in body composition, sleep, and improved mood, may move the dial on participation, as midlife women do not meet guidelines for physical activity. Exploring the role of reproductive aging beyond chronologic aging may provide gender-specific insights on both disablement and participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila A Dugan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 W. Harrison Street, Suite 885, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Department of Preventive Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, 1700 W. Van Buren, Suite 470, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Kelley Pettee Gabriel
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health, Austin Campus, Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living, 1616 Guadalupe Street, Suite 6.300, Austin, TX 78701, USA; Department of Women's Health, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School, Medical Park Tower, 1301 W. 38th Street, Suite 705, Austin, TX 78705, USA
| | - Brittney S Lange-Maia
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, 1700 W. Van Buren, Suite 470, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Rush University Medical Center, Center for Community Health Equity, 600 S. Paulina Street, Suite 480, AAC, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Room 6618, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
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Avis NE, Levine BJ, Danhauer S, Coeytaux RR. A pooled analysis of three studies of nonpharmacological interventions for menopausal hot flashes. Menopause 2018; 26:350-356. [PMID: 30363012 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to conduct a pooled analysis of three published trials of nonpharmacological interventions for menopausal hot flashes to compare the effectiveness of interventions. METHODS Data from three randomized controlled trials of interventions for hot flashes (two acupuncture trials, one yoga trial) were pooled. All three studies recruited perimenopausal or postmenopausal women experiencing ≥4 hot flashes/d on average. The primary outcome for all three studies was frequency of hot flashes as measured by the Daily Diary of Hot Flashes. Study 1 participants were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of acupuncture treatments (active intervention), sham acupuncture (attention control), or usual care. Study 2 participants were randomly assigned to 10 weeks of yoga classes, health and wellness education classes (attention control), or waitlist control. Study 3 randomly assigned participants to 6 months of acupuncture or waitlist control. To standardize the time frame for these analyses, only the first 8 weeks of intervention from all three studies were used. RESULTS The three active interventions and the two attention control groups had statistically similar trends in the percentage reduction of hot flashes over 8 weeks, ranging from 35% to 40%. These five groups did not differ significantly from each other, but all showed significantly greater reduction in hot flash frequency compared with the three usual care/waitlist groups. CONCLUSION Acupuncture, yoga, and health and wellness education classes all demonstrated statistically similar effectiveness in reduction of hot flash frequency compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Beverly J Levine
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Suzanne Danhauer
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Remy R Coeytaux
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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29
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Avis NE, Crawford SL, Green R. Vasomotor Symptoms Across the Menopause Transition: Differences Among Women. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2018; 45:629-640. [PMID: 30401547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are the primary menopausal symptoms, occurring in up 80% of women and peaking around the final menstrual period. The average duration is 10 years, longer in women with an earlier onset. Compared with non-Hispanic white women, black and Hispanic women are more likely and Asian women are less likely to report VMS. Risk factors include greater body composition (in the early stage of menopausal transition), smoking, anxiety, depression, sensitivity to symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, lower education, and medical treatments, such as hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and breast cancer-related therapies. VMS patterns over time and within higher-risk subgroups are heterogeneous across women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Graduate School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue, S1-853, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Robin Green
- The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus, 1300 Morris Park Avenue Block, Room 316, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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30
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Gibson CJ. Do current treatment options fall short for persistent vasomotor symptom bother in women over 60? Menopause 2018; 25:1063-1064. [DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hildreth KL, Ozemek C, Kohrt WM, Blatchford PJ, Moreau KL. Vascular dysfunction across the stages of the menopausal transition is associated with menopausal symptoms and quality of life. Menopause 2018; 25:1011-1019. [PMID: 29634636 PMCID: PMC6103796 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The menopausal transition is associated with somatic symptoms and increased rates of depression, which can impair quality of life (QOL) and increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. This period is also associated with accelerated vascular aging (arterial stiffening and endothelial dysfunction), an antecedent to CVD. This secondary analysis sought to explore associations between depression, menopausal symptoms and QOL, and vascular aging across menopause stages. METHODS Arterial stiffness (carotid artery compliance), endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated dilation [FMD]), menopausal symptoms (Menopausal Symptom List [MSL]), depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale [CES-D]), and QOL (Utian QOL Scale [UQOL]) were measured in 138 women (19-70 years) classified as premenopausal (n = 41, 34 ± 8 years; mean ± SD), early (n = 25, 49 ± 3 years), or late perimenopausal (n = 26, 50 ± 4 years), or early (n = 22, 55 ± 4 years) or late postmenopausal (n = 24, 61 ± 5 years). Differences across menopause stages were determined using one-way analysis of variance; associations between vascular measures and MSL, CES-D, and UQOL were tested using Pearson's correlation analyses. RESULTS Menopausal symptoms, depression, and QOL worsened across menopause stages, particularly in late perimenopausal women. Vasosomatic symptom frequency, and general somatic symptom frequency and severity were inversely correlated with carotid artery compliance and FMD (r = -0.27 to -0.18, all P < 0.05). Only correlations with general somatic symptoms were significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. Total QOL was positively correlated with carotid artery compliance (r = 0.23, P = 0.01). CES-D scores were not correlated with carotid artery compliance or FMD (r = -0.08, -0.03, P = 0.35). CONCLUSIONS Vascular dysfunction across the stages of menopause was associated with greater frequency and severity of menopausal symptoms, and lower QOL, but not depression. Mechanisms underlying these associations (eg, inflammation, oxidative stress) should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry L. Hildreth
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine
| | - Cemal Ozemek
- Department of Physical Therapy and the Integrative Physiology Laboratory, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Wendy M. Kohrt
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine
- Eastern Colorado VA Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center
| | - Patrick J. Blatchford
- Colorado Biostatistical Consortium, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Denver
| | - Kerrie L. Moreau
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine
- Eastern Colorado VA Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center
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Sun N, Xing J, Li L, Han XY, Man J, Wang HY, Lv DM. Impact of Menopause on Quality of Life in Community-based Women in China: 1 Year Follow-up. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2018; 32:224-228. [PMID: 29579516 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Quality of life (QOL) throughout menopause has become an outcome variable requiring measurement in clinical care. Staff nurses can provide earlier nursing during the menopausal transition (MT) stage. The purpose of this study was to describe the changes of QOL in different stages of the MT according to The Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) in Chinese women in community settings. Prospective longitudinal study design was used to analyze QOL of 327 community women age 30-65years old. They were followed up at 1-year. An instrument including the Chinese version of the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire was used to obtain data. A gradual decline in QOL was seen from premenopausal to menopausal transition (MT) and in postmenopausal women. Significant differences were observed in vasomotor, physical and sexual scores at baseline and follow-up (P<0.05). Significant differences in vasomotor scores were observed between baseline and follow-up for women in the premenopausal and Late MT stages (P<0.05). There were significant differences in psychosocial and physical scores between baseline and follow-up in the Late MT stage (P<0.05). Menopause might have a negative impact on QOL independent of age in community-based women in China. There seemed to be a potential model of the relationship of menopause status to change in QOL, but this needs supporting evidence from longer longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Sun
- Ningbo College of Health Sciences, Ningbo, PR China
| | - Jun Xing
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Laiyou Li
- Ningbo College of Health Sciences, Ningbo, PR China
| | - Xuan-Ye Han
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Jing Man
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Hong-Yin Wang
- Neurology Department, Zhejiang University Mingzhou Hospital, Ningbo, PR China.
| | - Dong-Mei Lv
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China.
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Trajectories of response to acupuncture for menopausal vasomotor symptoms: the Acupuncture in Menopause study. Menopause 2018; 24:171-179. [PMID: 27676631 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the trajectories of responses to acupuncture treatment for menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and the characteristics of women in each trajectory. METHODS Two hundred nine perimenopausal and postmenopausal women aged 45 to 60 years experiencing at least four VMS per day were recruited and randomized to receive up to 20 acupuncture treatments within 6 months or to a waitlist control group. The primary outcome was percent change from baseline in the mean daily VMS frequency. Finite mixture modeling was used to identify patterns of percent change in weekly VMS frequencies over the first 8 weeks. The Freeman-Holton test and analysis of variance were used to compare characteristics of women in different trajectories. RESULTS Analyses revealed four distinct trajectories of change in VMS frequency by week 8 in the acupuncture group. A small group of women (11.6%, n = 19) had an 85% reduction in VMS. The largest group (47%, n = 79) reported a 47% reduction in VMS frequency, 37.3% (n = 65) of the sample showed only a 9.6% reduction in VMS frequency, and a very small group (4.1%, n = 7) had a 100% increase in VMS. Among women in the waitlist control group, 79.5% reported a 10% decrease in VMS frequency at week 8. Baseline number of VMS, number of acupuncture treatments in the first 8 weeks, and traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis were significantly related to trajectory group membership in the acupuncture group. CONCLUSIONS Approximately half of the treated sample reported a decline in VMS frequency, but identifying clear predictors of clinical response to acupuncture treatment of menopausal VMS remains challenging.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the short and long-term effects of acupuncture on vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and quality of life-related measures. METHODS A total of 209 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women aged 45 to 60 years, experiencing four or more VMS per day, were recruited from the community and randomized to receive up to 20 acupuncture treatments within the first 6 months (acupuncture group) or the second 6 months (waitlist control group) of the 12-month study period. The primary outcome was mean daily frequency of VMS. Secondary outcomes were VMS interference with daily life, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, somatic and other symptoms, anxiety, and quality of life. RESULTS The VMS frequency declined by 36.7% at 6 months in the acupuncture group and increased by 6.0% in the control group (P < 0.001 for between-group comparison). At 12 months, the reduction from baseline in the acupuncture group was 29.4% (P < 0.001 for within-group comparison from baseline to 12 months), suggesting that the reduction was largely maintained after treatment. Statistically significant clinical improvement was observed after three acupuncture treatments, and maximal clinical effects occurred after a median of eight treatments. Persistent improvements were seen in many quality of life-related outcomes in the acupuncture group relative to the control group. CONCLUSIONS We found that a course of acupuncture treatments was associated with significant reduction in VMS, and several quality-of-life measures, compared with no acupuncture, and that clinical benefit persisted for at least 6 months beyond the end of treatment.
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Association between pulse wave velocity and hot flashes/sweats in middle-aged women. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13854. [PMID: 29062032 PMCID: PMC5653868 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13395-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
As women age and go through menopause, they suffer a higher incidence of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have shown that a relationship exists between hot flashes/sweats and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the association between hot flashes/sweats and arterial stiffness is unclear. We aim to explore the relationship between hot flashes/sweats and arterial stiffness using the modified Kupperman index (KMI) questionnaire and measure the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). The prevalence of hot flashes in our research was reported to be 41.77%. There was a statistically significant difference between the mean baPWV among groups that experienced different severities of hot flashes/sweats according to one-way ANOVA test (p < 0.001). The baPWV values were positively associated with the severity of hot flashes/sweats based on linear regression after adjusting for established cardiovascular confounders (95% CI: (5.86, 43.23), p = 0.01). To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first investigation to propose that baPWV may serve both as an objective index for evaluating the severity of hot flashes/sweats and as a predictor of arterial stiffness beyond Cardiac Vascular Disease (CVD) risk factors in middle-aged women.
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Menopausal transition in Southern Europe: comparative study of women in Serbia and Portugal. Menopause 2017; 24:1236-1245. [PMID: 28609393 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess and compare general menopausal quality of life in Serbia and Portugal. METHODS In all, 1,503 women aged between 40 and 65 years from Belgrade, Serbia, and Lisbon, Portugal, were included in the study. A sociodemographic questionnaire and the Utian Quality of Life (UQOL) scale were used in data collection. RESULTS The average age of women was 50 (SD = 5.61) years. Serbian and Portuguese women differed in all sociodemographic characteristics except for body mass index (BMI) and relationship status. There were no significant differences in UQOL total score (P = 0.629) or UQOL sexual score (P = 0.396) between Serbian and Portuguese women. However, occupational (P < 0.001) and health (P = 0.003) scores were significantly higher in the Serbian sample, whereas Portuguese women had higher emotional scores (P < 0.001). Based on the total study sample, women with an average UQOL score were more highly educated, employed, non-smokers, and physically active, and more likely to obtain medical assistance for climacteric symptoms compared with women who reported lower UQOL score. In addition to these characteristics, women with a higher UQOL score had higher annual income, no recent illnesses, and optimal BMI compared with women who reported a lower UQOL score. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that diverse populations of midlife women can have similar perceptions of quality of life as it encompasses broad dimensions of menopausal somatic and psychosocial symptoms, as well as habits and lifestyle. Further comparative studies using the UQOL scale are warranted to offer more information on the delicate factors influencing well-being in climacteric women worldwide.
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Health-related quality of life in midlife women in Qatar: relation to arthritis and symptoms of joint pain. Menopause 2016; 23:324-9. [PMID: 26382317 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been poorly documented in the Middle East and North African region, including the State of Qatar. Given that musculoskeletal pain is commonly reported among midlife women, we evaluated the association between self-report of either OA or RA and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among midlife women in Qatar. In addition, HRQoL among women in Qatar was compared with that of women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 841 women 40 to 60 years recruited from primary care centers in Qatar. Face-to-face interviews were conducted and included measures of self-reported OA and RA, health-related symptom experience, and HRQoL using the SF-36 health survey. RESULTS Most women were obese (75.5%) and reported being bothered by aches and stiffness in joints (71.6%). Prevalence of self-reported OA and RA was 4.8% and 4.3%, respectively. OA was significantly associated with reduced physical function (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.97; P=0.003). RA was also significantly related to reduced physical function (adjusted OR, 2.94; P = 0.01) and role physical (adjusted OR, 2.67; P = 0.01). When compared with women from the SWAN, women from the current study had significantly lower mean scores for bodily pain (53.0 vs. 68.9, P = 0.0001) and for vitality (49.9 vs. 54.8, P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Self-report of OA or RA was associated with significant disability in our sample. Because symptoms of aches and stiff joints were so frequently reported, arthritis may be under-diagnosed, especially given the high rates of obesity observed.
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Thurston RC, Chang Y, Barinas-Mitchell E, Jennings JR, Landsittel DP, Santoro N, von Känel R, Matthews KA. Menopausal Hot Flashes and Carotid Intima Media Thickness Among Midlife Women. Stroke 2016; 47:2910-2915. [PMID: 27834746 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.116.014674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There has been a longstanding interest in the role of menopause and its correlates in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Menopausal hot flashes are experienced by most midlife women; emerging data link hot flashes to CVD risk indicators. We tested whether hot flashes, measured via state-of-the-art physiologic methods, were associated with greater subclinical atherosclerosis as assessed by carotid ultrasound. We considered the role of CVD risk factors and estradiol concentrations in these associations. METHODS A total of 295 nonsmoking women free of clinical CVD underwent ambulatory physiologic hot flash assessments; a blood draw; and carotid ultrasound measurement of intima media thickness and plaque. Associations between hot flashes and subclinical atherosclerosis were tested in regression models controlling for CVD risk factors and estradiol. RESULTS More frequent physiologic hot flashes were associated with higher carotid intima media thickness (for each additional hot flash: β [SE]=0.004 [0.001]; P=0.0001; reported hot flash: β [SE]=0.008 [0.002]; P=0.002, multivariable) and plaque (eg, for each additional hot flash, odds ratio [95% confidence interval] plaque index ≥2=1.07 [1.003-1.14]; P=0.04, relative to no plaque, multivariable] among women reporting daily hot flashes; associations were not accounted for by CVD risk factors or by estradiol. Among women reporting hot flashes, hot flashes accounted for more variance in intima media thickness than most CVD risk factors. CONCLUSIONS Among women reporting daily hot flashes, frequent hot flashes may provide information about a woman's vascular status beyond standard CVD risk factors and estradiol. Frequent hot flashes may mark a vulnerable vascular phenotype among midlife women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Thurston
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.).
| | - Yuefang Chang
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - Emma Barinas-Mitchell
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - J Richard Jennings
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - Doug P Landsittel
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - Nanette Santoro
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - Roland von Känel
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
| | - Karen A Matthews
- From the Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.R.J., K.A.M.), Department of Neurosurgery (Y.C.), and Department of Medicine (D.P.L.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, PA (R.C.T., E.B.-M., K.A.M.); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver (N.S.); and Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland (R.v.K.)
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Hot flashes: emerging cardiovascular risk factors in recent and late postmenopause and their association with higher blood pressure. Menopause 2016; 23:846-55. [DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Zhang T, Shi W, Huang Z, Gao D, Guo Z, Liu J, Chongsuvivatwong V. Influence of culture, residential segregation and socioeconomic development on rural elderly health-related quality of life in Guangxi, China. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2016; 14:98. [PMID: 27356505 PMCID: PMC4928288 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-016-0499-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to assess ethnic differences in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among the rural elderly, and to examine the influence of ethnic culture, residential segregation and socioeconomic development on HRQoL. Methods A total of 6,511 rural elderly aged 60 years and older from 5,541 households in 116 villages across eight ethnic groups in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous region were selected and assessed for HRQoL. The EQ-5D index values were calculated based on the Chinese Time Trade-Off values set. The EQ-5D descriptive system scores, visual analogue scale scores, and index values were described by ethnic group. The EQ-5D index was modeled against ethnic culture, residential segregation and socioeconomic development using villages as random effects. Results The median (IQR) of HRQoL among all the ethnic groups was 0.88 (0.80, 0.96). Pain/discomfort was the most prevalent problem, followed by anxiety/depression. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, a significant difference in HRQoL among ethnic groups persisted, but this was not true for residential segregation. Conclusion Social welfare and health policies designed to improve the health of the rural elderly should focus more on older, female, less-educated, Yao minority individuals as well as lower-income households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai Zhang
- Epidemiology & Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Public Health, Dali University, Dali, 671000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuxiang Shi
- Health Management Unit, Faculty of Humanities and Management, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoquan Huang
- Health Management Unit, Faculty of Humanities and Management, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dong Gao
- Health Management Unit, Faculty of Humanities and Management, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyou Guo
- Health Management Unit, Faculty of Humanities and Management, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianying Liu
- Health Management Unit, Faculty of Humanities and Management, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, People's Republic of China
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Health-Related Quality of Life During the Menopausal Transition: Testing a Theoretical Model. Res Theory Nurs Pract 2016; 30:143-60. [PMID: 27333634 DOI: 10.1891/1541-6577.30.2.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothetical model of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) during the menopausal transition. The model was developed to test specific components of the Wilson and Cleary's model for HRQOL. A cross-sectional, correlational study was carried out using self-report questionnaires on a convenience sample of 162 Korean women in the menopausal transition. The model was tested by a path analysis using Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) program. The path analysis showed that 5 affecting variables explained 69% of the variance in HRQOL during the menopausal transition. Based on the results, the Wilson and Cleary's model may be useful in explaining HRQOL during the menopausal transition. Symptoms, functional status, and health perceptions mediated the effect of individual and environmental characteristics on HRQOL. However, the results suggest that some paths need to be added or modified in the model. To date, most research using Wilson and Cleary's model has been conducted in the United States, Africa, and Europe (e.g., Austria, Norway, and Spain). This study shows the applicability of the model in Asian people.
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Abbasi M, Miri MR, Moasheri BN. Physical Activity Training and Middle-Aged Females’ Quality of Life. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/modernc.8850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Zeleke BM, Bell RJ, Billah B, Davis SR. Vasomotor and sexual symptoms in older Australian women: a cross-sectional study. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:149-55.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ghorbani R, Nassaji M, Shahbazi A, Rostami B, Taheri M. Association between quality of life, menopausal status, and sociodemographic factors among middle-aged women in Iran. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2015; 90:166-170. [PMID: 26854898 DOI: 10.1097/01.epx.0000475545.75242.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assessment of overall health, well-being, and quality of life (QoL) during middle age and menopause deserves special attention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of menopausal status and some sociodemographic variables on QoL among middle-aged women in Semnan, Iran. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS This cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2012 in Semnan, Iran. The participants included 770 women aged 45-60 years. The data were collected by interview using a structured questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics, data on menopausal status, and QoL measurement using the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire. RESULTS The mean±SD age of the women was 50.9±4.7 years. The overall unadjusted mean scores obtained for each domain were as follows: vasomotor: 1.83±1.86; psychosocial: 1.62±1.41; physical: 1.98±1.28; and sexual: 1.63±1.87. Logistic regression analysis showed that menopausal status was significantly associated with QoL in all domains, except the psychosocial domain. Age, BMI, household income, and number of children were significantly associated with impairment in QoL. Marital status, educational level, and residential area did not show any association with QoL in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Our findings confirm previous literature on the negative impact of menopausal symptoms on QoL, and show the interaction of some sociodemographic characteristics including age, number of children, household income, and BMI, on QoL. Health professionals should ensure that they consider a range of factors in middle-aged women's lives and provide insight into possible treatment strategies and lifestyle interventions for improving QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheb Ghorbani
- Departments of aBiostatistics bSocial Determinants of Health Research Center cDepartment of Social Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences dSemnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kahyee Hor
- Southern General Hospital; Glasgow G51 4TF UK
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Health-Related Quality of Life and Pain Intensity Among Ethnically Diverse Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Pain Manag Nurs 2015. [PMID: 26206611 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain is highly prevalent in older adults and often negatively associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study compared HRQoL, including physical health and mental health, in persons of differing ethnicities, and identified factors associated with pain intensity and HRQoL in ethnically diverse older adults. Older adults with chronic pain from four ethnic groups (African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Hispanics, and European Americans) were recruited from the Florida Atlantic University Healthy Aging Research Initiative (HARI) registry. The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) was used to evaluate HRQoL, including functional status, emotional well-being, and social functioning. Of 593 persons in the four ethnic groups in the registry, 174 met the inclusion criteria (pain level of four or higher on an 11-point scale, lasting 3 months or longer). Among these 174, African Americans reported the highest level of pain intensity, followed by Afro-Caribbeans, Hispanics, and European Americans. Hispanics reported the highest physical health scores and the lowest mental health scores. In contrast, African Americans reported the highest mental health scores and the lowest physical health scores. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that ethnicity, lower physical health scores, and lower mental health scores were significantly (p ≤ .01) associated with pain intensity. Understanding ethnic variations in response to pain intensity may address gaps in knowledge about HRQoL to reduce disparities in optimal care. Health care providers should consider ethnic norms and cultural diversity to provide optimal interventions for this population.
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Jenabi E, Shobeiri F, Hazavehei SMM, Roshanaei G. Assessment of Questionnaire Measuring Quality of Life in Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review. Oman Med J 2015; 30:151-6. [PMID: 26171119 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2015.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Menopause is a natural part of the aging process in women and is defined as occurring 12 months after the last menstrual period marking the end of menstrual cycles. Menopause has a negative impact on the quality of life (QoL). Various generic and specific questionnaires have been used for assessing different dimensions of QoL in menopausal women. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify those general and specific instruments, and to determine the factors that affect QoL in menopausal women. We assessed eight specific and three general tools and found that some general and specific instruments, such as the 36-item short form (SF-36) and the Menopause Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), were mostly used for assessment. The specific tools available were diverse. Employment status and a high educational level in menopausal women were considered to be protective factors in improving QoL. Identification of predicting factors of QoL, such as body mass index, race, age, duration of menopause, and social and occupational variables can help to improve the QoL of these women allowing planning of psychological consultations and practical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensiyeh Jenabi
- Mother and Child Care Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shobeiri
- Mother and Child Care Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Seyyed M M Hazavehei
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ghodratollah Roshanaei
- Modeling of Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Franco OH, Muka T, Colpani V, Kunutsor S, Chowdhury S, Chowdhury R, Kavousi M. Vasomotor symptoms in women and cardiovascular risk markers: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Maturitas 2015; 81:353-61. [PMID: 26022385 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the observational or interventional studies assessing the association of vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes and night sweats) with various cardiovascular risk markers (systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), hypertension, total cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), and measures of subclinical atherosclerosis), in peri-menopausal, menopausal, or postmenopausal women. Eleven unique studies were identified with data available on 19,667 non-overlapping participants. Pooled analysis showed that women with hot flushes, compared to those without, tended to have significant higher levels of SBP (mean difference (MD): 1.95 mmHg (95%CI, 0.27 to 33.63)), and DBP (MD 1.17 mmHg (95%CI, -0.21 to 2.54)) and higher odds of having hypertension (OR: 1.18, 95%CI: 0.93 to 1.51), albeit non-significant. Similarly, women who reported night sweats compared to those who did not, had significant higher levels of SBP, (MD: 1.33 mmHg (95%CI, 0.63 to 2.03)), DBP (MD: 0.55 mmHg (95%CI, 0.19 to 0.91)), total cholesterol (MD: 0.17 mmHg (95%CI, 0.03 to 0.31)) and BMI (MD 0.64 mmHg (95%CI, 0.47 to 0.80)). Vasomotor symptoms in women were not associated with measures of subclinical atherosclerosis. Women with vasomotor symptoms may have an unfavorable cardiovascular risk profile compared to women without vasomotor complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar H Franco
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Taulant Muka
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Veronica Colpani
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Office NA-2914, Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Setor Kunutsor
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, United Kingdom
| | - Susmita Chowdhury
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, United Kingdom
| | - Rajiv Chowdhury
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB1 8RN, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to obtain preliminary data on the efficacy of yoga for reducing self-reported menopausal hot flashes in a randomized study including an attention control group. METHODS We randomized 54 late perimenopausal women (2-12 mo of amenorrhea) and postmenopausal women (>12 mo of amenorrhea)--aged 45 to 58 years and who experienced at least four hot flashes per day, on average, for at least 4 weeks--to one of three groups: yoga, health and wellness education (HW), and wait list (WL). Yoga and HW classes consisted of weekly 90-minute classes for 10 weeks. All women completed daily hot flash diaries throughout the trial (10 wk) to track the frequency and severity of hot flashes. The mean hot flash index score is based on the number of mild, moderate, severe, and very severe hot flashes. RESULTS Hot flash frequency declined significantly across time for all three groups, with the strongest decline occurring during the first week. There was no overall significant difference in hot flash frequency decrease over time by treatment groups, but the yoga and HW groups followed similar patterns and showed greater decreases than the WL group. On week 10, women in the yoga group reported an approximately 66% decrease in hot flash frequency, women in the HW group reported a 63% decrease, and women in the WL group reported a 36% decrease. The hot flash index showed a similar pattern. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that yoga can serve as a behavioral option for reducing hot flashes but may not offer any advantage over other types of interventions.
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Avis NE, Crawford SL, Greendale G, Bromberger JT, Everson-Rose SA, Gold EB, Hess R, Joffe H, Kravitz HM, Tepper PG, Thurston RC. Duration of menopausal vasomotor symptoms over the menopause transition. JAMA Intern Med 2015; 175:531-9. [PMID: 25686030 PMCID: PMC4433164 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.8063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 474] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The expected duration of menopausal vasomotor symptoms (VMS) is important to women making decisions about possible treatments. OBJECTIVES To determine total duration of frequent VMS (≥ 6 days in the previous 2 weeks) (hereafter total VMS duration) during the menopausal transition, to quantify how long frequent VMS persist after the final menstrual period (FMP) (hereafter post-FMP persistence), and to identify risk factors for longer total VMS duration and longer post-FMP persistence. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) is a multiracial/multiethnic observational study of the menopausal transition among 3302 women enrolled at 7 US sites. From February 1996 through April 2013, women completed a median of 13 visits. Analyses included 1449 women with frequent VMS. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Total VMS duration (in years) (hot flashes or night sweats) and post-FMP persistence (in years) into postmenopause. RESULTS The median total VMS duration was 7.4 years. Among 881 women who experienced an observable FMP, the median post-FMP persistence was 4.5 years. Women who were premenopausal or early perimenopausal when they first reported frequent VMS had the longest total VMS duration (median, >11.8 years) and post-FMP persistence (median, 9.4 years). Women who were postmenopausal at the onset of VMS had the shortest total VMS duration (median, 3.4 years). Compared with women of other racial/ethnic groups, African American women reported the longest total VMS duration (median, 10.1 years). Additional factors related to longer duration of VMS (total VMS duration or post-FMP persistence) were younger age, lower educational level, greater perceived stress and symptom sensitivity, and higher depressive symptoms and anxiety at first report of VMS. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Frequent VMS lasted more than 7 years during the menopausal transition for more than half of the women and persisted for 4.5 years after the FMP. Individual characteristics (eg, being premenopausal and having greater negative affective factors when first experiencing VMS) were related to longer-lasting VMS. Health care professionals should counsel women to expect that frequent VMS could last more than 7 years, and they may last longer for African American women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester
| | - Gail Greendale
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Joyce T Bromberger
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Ellen B Gold
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis
| | - Rachel Hess
- Department of Medicine, University of Utah Schools of the Health Sciences, Salt Lake City
| | - Hadine Joffe
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Howard M Kravitz
- Departments of Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ping G Tepper
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Rebecca C Thurston
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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