How To Prevent Heart Disease After Menopause: Screening & Lifestyle Strategies
Key Takeaways Perimenopause can last up to 10 years, though the median duration is around 7 years, and during this time, declining estrogen accelerates cardiovascular risk factors, making early intervention essential for long-term heart health Hot flashes, sleep disruption, and mood changes during perimenopause serve as early warning signs of future heart problems, not just temporary discomforts Evidence-based prevention strategies including Mediterranean-style eating, 150 minutes of weekly exercise, and annual screenings can significantly reduce heart disease risk Women experiencing perimenopause should prioritize strength training twice weekly to counter muscle loss and metabolic changes that increase cardiovascular risk Perimenopause represents far more than just irregular periods and hot flashes. This transitional phase, which typically lasts around 7 years but can extend up to 10 years before menopause, creates a perfect storm of hormonal changes that dramatically increase a woman...