A Study to Assess the Risk of Cariovascualar Disease among Post- Menopausal Apartment Dwelling Women

Abstract

Background: The permanent cessation of ovarian function and the transition of a woman from a reproductive
toa nonreproductive life is defined as Menopause. This period is characterized by remarkable changes in
menstruationand hormonal patterns as well as psychological and physiological symptoms.
Objectives: The objectives of this study was to assess the Body-Mass Index, Waist-Hip Ratio, Submaximal Aerobic
Capacity, Ankle-Brachial Index and Quality of Life using the SF-12 questionnaire among post-menopausal
apartment dwelling women.
Design: Descriptive Study
Methods: 110 subjects meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. The subjects were
assessed based on the screening tools Body-Mass Index (BMI) and Waist- Hip Ratio. The outcome tools used
to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease among post-menopausal apartment dwelling women were Ankle-
Brachial Index (ABI), Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and health related quality of life SF-12 Questionnaire.
Results: Out of 110 subjects, 59 subjects had a BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m2 and 36 subjects had a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2.56 (51%)
subjects had substantially higher waist- hip ratio (≥0.85 cm). 61(55.5%) subjects had mild to moderate peripheral
arterial disease on left side and 67 (60.9%) subjects had mild-moderate peripheral arterial disease on right side.
The range of 6MWD is between 490-900 m. The correlation between MCS 12 and PCS 12 has an intermediate poor
correlation.
Conclusion: The study shows that Post- Menopausal Apartment Dwelling Women are at risk of Cardiovascular
Disease.