Menopause and Heart Health: What Texas Women Need to Know

Every day, an estimated 6,000 women in the U.S. enter menopause, yet many are unaware that this transition can significantly affect their heart health. During Menopause Awareness Month, the American Heart Association and The Menopause Society are sharing key facts to help women understand and manage their cardiovascular risk. For Texas businesses, this is not just a health issue—it is an economic one. Women make up a large share of the workforce and are increasingly in leadership roles. When their health is compromised, productivity, healthcare costs, and overall economic vitality are at stake.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, yet only 4 in 10 women recognize it as their greatest health threat. The years around menopause are a critical window for prevention. "Menopause represents an important opportunity for cardiovascular disease prevention," said Chrisandra L. Shufelt, MD, MS, FACP, MSCP, current board member and past president of The Menopause Society. "By the time women reach menopause, approximately 90% have at least one risk factor for heart disease." This means that the vast majority of women entering menopause already have a condition that could lead to a heart attack or stroke. In Texas, where heart disease is a leading cause of death, addressing these risk factors could save lives and reduce healthcare spending.

Many women spend about 40% of their lives in postmenopause, making midlife a pivotal moment to know your heart health numbers and talk with your healthcare team. Menopause does not cause cardiovascular disease, but changes such as higher cholesterol, increased body fat around organs, and stiffening blood vessels can elevate risk. Additionally, a 2026 American Heart Association scientific statement notes that menopause and aging can accelerate chronic kidney disease, which further contributes to heart disease and stroke risk. A study of more than 83,000 women published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that after menopause, an estimated 1 in 4 women may develop atrial fibrillation, with stress and insomnia as major contributors.

For Texas employers, supporting women's health during menopause can be a strategic investment. Simple steps can make a difference: encouraging regular health screenings, offering flexible schedules for medical appointments, and fostering a culture that prioritizes sleep and stress management. The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women menopause resource center and The Menopause Society at menopause.org provide evidence-based tools, including directories to find certified practitioners. By taking action, Texas businesses can help women thrive through menopause and beyond, strengthening the state's economy and communities.