The following is a summary of “Trajectories of Blood Lipids Profile in Midlife Women: Does Menopause Matter,” published in the November 2023 issue of Cardiology by Wu et al.

The investigation aimed to shed light on the complex changes in lipid profiles during menopause transition (MT) by closely analyzing the trajectories of various lipid parameters in a cohort of 2,582 women from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation. The research focused on comprehensive lipid measurements, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B (ApoB), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides, and apolipoprotein A-I, across the menopausal stages. The findings revealed distinct patterns in lipid changes over the MT period. Notably, prior to menopause, a consistent inverse U-shaped trend was observed across lipid parameters, indicating an increase in lipid levels leading up to menopause, followed by a subsequent decline after menopause. Interestingly, another pattern, characterized by a U-shaped trajectory, was detected, showing a rise in lipid levels five years before menopause.

Moreover, the study highlighted specific factors influencing these lipid trajectories during MT. Variables such as the age at which menopause occurred, levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, vasomotor symptoms experienced by women, and estradiol levels significantly impacted the shape and levels of lipid profiles during the transition. These predictors notably influenced the pattern and extent of changes observed in various lipid parameters during MT.

This comprehensive investigation signifies the need for continuous and early surveillance of lipid profiles throughout the MT phase in women’s health management. 

Understanding the intricate alterations in lipid trajectories during menopause could have substantial implications for preventive health measures and interventions aimed at minimizing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other related health issues in women as they transition through this stage of life. The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing and monitoring these lipid dynamics to ensure appropriate and timely interventions, potentially benefiting women’s long-term cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

Source: ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.030388