Which statement best describes the overall impact of menopause on cardiovascular risk?

• A. Cardiovascular risk decreases after menopause
• B. Cardiovascular risk stays the same
• C. Cardiovascular risk increases due to hormonal changes affecting risk factors
• D. Cardiovascular risk fluctuates randomly

Answer: (C)

Menopause brings a decline in ovarian estrogen, and that shift removes several protective effects estrogen has on the cardiovascular system. Estrogen helps keep the lipid profile favorable, supports healthy blood vessel function, and aids in maintaining insulin sensitivity. When estrogen falls, these protections fade, and risk factors tend to worsen: LDL and total cholesterol often rise, HDL may decrease or not rise as much, triglycerides can increase; blood pressure commonly climbs; abdominal (visceral) fat increases and insulin resistance can worsen. This combination drives a higher overall risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke, as time goes on after menopause. The increase is a real, gradual change tied to hormonal shifts, not a decrease, no change, or random fluctuations.