A new large-scale study from Korea University has found that women who experience menopause before the age of 40—known as premature menopause—may face a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although supporting evidence is still limited, the findings underscore the need for targeted prevention strategies and increased awareness of women-specific health risks.
Researchers analyzed health data from over 1.1 million postmenopausal women in South Korea to explore the link between age at menopause and diabetes risk. Their findings, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that the risk of type 2 diabetes increased as the age at menopause decreased. Women who underwent menopause before age 40 had the highest risk, compared to those who experienced menopause at the typical age of 50 or later.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition associated with serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and increased mortality. While lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity are well-known contributors, this study highlights how hormonal changes—specifically, the timing of menopause—can also play a crucial role in metabolic health.
“Menopause marks a major hormonal shift, significantly impacting metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and glucose control,” said Associate Professor Ga Eun Nam, lead author of the study.
Estrogen, a hormone that declines sharply during menopause, is known to support insulin function and regulate blood sugar levels. Its early loss may leave women more vulnerable to metabolic disorders like diabetes.
The analysis included data from 1,125,378 postmenopausal women and revealed a clear trend: the younger a woman was at the onset of menopause, the greater her risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This association remained significant even after adjusting for other variables, such as age, body mass index (BMI), lifestyle habits, and pre-existing medical conditions.
The researchers suggest that early menopause could become a key marker for identifying women at high risk of diabetes.
“Women with a history of early or premature menopause should be especially vigilant about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and routine health check-ups,” Prof. Nam advised.
Management and Regular Screening is the Key
The study calls for proactive management and regular screening for women who experience menopause before age 45, with a particular focus on those under 40. Early intervention could help mitigate the heightened risk and improve long-term health outcomes.
These findings contribute to a growing body of research emphasizing the importance of hormonal transitions in women’s metabolic health. According to Korea University, this study could shape future healthcare strategies by informing clinical guidelines and supporting the development of personalized prevention programs.
“Raising awareness about the long-term effects of early menopause is essential,” said Prof. Nam. “By identifying at-risk individuals earlier, we can implement targeted interventions that could prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.”
Overall, the study highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to women’s health—one that considers reproductive milestones like menopause as pivotal events influencing lifelong well-being.
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Source: Financial Express
