Symptoms, behaviors, and cardiovascular risk perception among women 40-60 years of age in Gipuzkoa

Background

Perimenopause and menopause represent a critical yet under-addressed public health issue. It impacts women’s health, quality of life, and work productivity; yet awareness appears to be scarce. This study describes symptoms, health-seeking behaviors, and cardiovascular risk perceptions among midlife women.

Methods

An anonymous online survey was conducted for women aged 40–60 years, residing in Gipuzkoa. It included 65 questions about experience and knowledge on menopause and cardiovascular health. Data are presented with means, standard deviations (SD) and percentages (%).

Results

2205 valid surveys were received. Mean participant age was 51.7 (SD: 4.5) years, 87% had secondary or higher education, 48.5% reported ≥12 months amenorrhea and 82.9% at least one pregnancy. Frequent menopause symptoms were insomnia (68.2%), night sweats (66.9%), reduced libido (62.3%) and fatigue (62.2%). Public and private gynecological services were used by 40.0% and 19.4%, respectively. Only 19.9% used primary care consultations, while 26.0% reported difficulties in healthcare access. Most (70.1%) had partial knowledge of symptoms, 80.3% sought more information and 28.7% consumed nutritional supplements for symptoms. Regarding work related issues, 47.8% attended work while physically ill, with 41.0% being emotionally affected. Cardiovascular disease was chosen as the leading cause of death by 51.2%, but 67.5% never discussing heart health with healthcare professional. 45.5% had suspected cardiac symptoms, but 18.5% took no action. Chest pain was the most recognized symptom (82.7%).

Conclusions

Symptoms related to menopause are prevalent and impact womeńs daily life and work. Nonetheless, there is still a dearth of knowledge, not sufficient cardiovascular awareness and less healthcare services utilization than needed. Public healthcare strategies should prioritize education, integrated care pathways, and proactive cardiovascular risk communication targeting midlife women.

Key messages

• Menopausal symptoms are widespread and under-managed, with significant impact on women’s daily functioning, wellbeing and work.

• Cardiovascular risk awareness and prevention in midlife women remain insufficient and require targeted public health action.