0
0
A new study presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting (ENDO 2025) in San Francisco reveals that the age at which a woman experiences her first period—known as menarche—can provide important insights into her risk for a range of long-term health conditions, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and reproductive issues.
Researchers from the University of Sao Paulo analyzed data from 7,623 Brazilian women aged 35 to 74 as part of the ELSA-Brazil study, one of the largest investigations of its kind in a developing country. The team categorized participants based on the age of their first period: early (before age 10), typical (ages 10 to 15), and late (after age 15).
Key findings include:
-
Early menarche (before age 10): Women in this group were more likely to develop obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems, and reproductive issues such as pre-eclampsia later in life.
-
Late menarche (after age 15): These women were less likely to be obese but faced a higher risk of menstrual irregularities and certain heart conditions.
-
Typical menarche (ages 10 to 15): This group had the lowest risk for the above health issues.
Lead author Flávia Rezende Tinano emphasized that most women remember when they had their first period but may not realize its potential as a marker for future health risks. “Understanding these links can help women and their doctors be more proactive about preventing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease,” Tinano said.
The study highlights the importance of early health education and personalized screening, especially in underrepresented populations such as those in Latin America. The researchers hope their findings will encourage healthcare providers to consider age at menarche when assessing women’s long-term health risks and planning preventive care.
“Our findings suggest that knowing a woman’s age at her first period can help doctors identify those at higher risk for certain diseases. This information could guide more personalized screening and prevention efforts,” Tinano noted.
Disclaimer:
This article summarizes findings from a scientific study presented at a medical conference. The results are based on population-level data and do not determine individual risk. Women concerned about their menstrual history or long-term health should consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and screening. The study’s findings are not intended to replace professional medical guidance or diagnosis.
