Data Suggests Hot Flashes Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk
New research suggests that hot flashes, a common symptom of menopause, may raise the risk for diabetes onset, especially when accompanied by night sweats.
For the study, investigators analyzed data gathered from more than 150,000 postmenopausal women who were part of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI). Thirty-three percent of the women studied experienced hot flashes, and that correlated to greater diabetes risk.
More specifically, any incidence of hot flashes was associated with an 18 percent diabetes risk increase, and as the severity and duration of the hot flashes rose, so did the chance for diabetes onset. The risk was greatest for women whose hot flashes began late in their menopause cycle, and was accompanied by night sweats.
Currently, 15 percent of women aged 55 and above have type 2 diabetes, and by 2050 this incidence rate will likely double. Although diabetes is a serious health concern for both sexes, women have a greater chance of being hospitalized with the condition, or of dying from its complications.
Having night sweats without hot flashes was also a research concern. “This study showed that, after adjustment for obesity and race, women with more severe night sweats, with or without hot flashes, still had a higher risk of diabetes,” said Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, North American Menopause Society (NAMS) executive director.
“Menopause is a perfect time to encourage behavior changes that reduce menopause symptoms, as well as the risk of diabetes and heart disease,” adds Pinkerton. “Suggestions include getting regular exercise and adequate sleep, avoiding excess alcohol, stopping smoking, and eating a heart-healthy diet. For symptomatic women, hormone therapy started near menopause improves menopause symptoms and reduces the risk of diabetes.”
The study is published online in Menopause, the NAMS journal.
Source: Science Daily
Photo credit: Enrico Strocchi
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