Frailty risk in midlife increases with aging and deficiency of which hormone?

• A. Estrogen.
• B. Testosterone.
• C. Progesterone.
• D. Cortisol.

Answer: (A)

Estrogen deficiency during the menopausal transition is a strong driver of frailty risk in midlife because estrogen helps protect both bone and muscle health and modulates metabolism and inflammation. When estrogen declines after menopause, bone resorption increases, leading to osteoporosis and higher fracture risk. At the same time, loss of estrogen contributes to decreases in muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia), reduced physical endurance, and changes in fat distribution, all of which undermine mobility and resilience. The overall effect is a higher likelihood of exhibiting frailty features such as weakness, slow gait, and reduced activity. While other hormones can influence aspects of frailty, the midlife drop in estrogen most directly ties to the frailty risk seen in aging women.