Endometriosis Linked To Increased Heart Disease Risk In Women By 35%

A recent study published in NCBI highlights a concerning link between endometriosis and a heightened risk of heart disease in women. The research, conducted by a team of medical experts, found that women with endometriosis are at a significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular conditions.

This study underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and preventive strategies for women suffering from this chronic condition.

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, affects millions of women worldwide. The study revealed that women with endometriosis are not only grappling with painful symptoms but are also facing elevated risks of heart disease. The connection between these two health issues emphasizes the importance of comprehensive healthcare management.

The study analyzed data from thousands of women with endometriosis and found that they have a 30% higher risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to those without the condition. The link between endometriosis and heart disease is thought to be related to systemic inflammation and hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to cardiovascular issues.

The new Danish study was led by Dr. Eva Havers-Borgersen, from Rigshospitalet Copenhagen University Hospital, in Copenhagen. Her team presented its findings Thursday in London at the annual meeting of the European Society of Cardiology.

"One in three women die from cardiovascular disease and one in 10 women suffer from endometriosis," she said in a meeting news release. "Our results suggest that it may be time to routinely consider the risk of cardiovascular disease in women with endometriosis."

The research involved a thorough review of medical records and patient histories, highlighting that endometriosis-related inflammation may exacerbate cardiovascular risks. The study found that women with endometriosis often experience elevated levels of inflammatory markers, which are known to play a role in heart disease. This systemic inflammation can lead to endothelial dysfunction and the development of atherosclerosis, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.

Hormonal imbalances associated with endometriosis, particularly involving estrogen, might contribute to increased cardiovascular risk. Estrogen can impact lipid levels and arterial health, further linking endometriosis with heart disease. The study also points out that women with endometriosis may face challenges in managing cardiovascular risk factors due to the overlapping symptoms and complications of their condition.

The study analyzed data from a Danish database, tracking over 60,000 women diagnosed with endometriosis between 1977 and 2021. Researchers compared heart attack and stroke rates among these women to those of more than 242,000 age-matched women without endometriosis, following their health for an average of 16 years.

Findings revealed that women with endometriosis had a 35% higher likelihood of experiencing a heart attack and a 20% increased risk of an ischemic stroke compared to those without the condition. Additionally, endometriosis was associated with a 21% higher risk of developing a heart arrhythmia and an 11% higher risk of heart failure.

Given these findings, it is crucial for women with endometriosis to be proactive about their cardiovascular health. Regular screenings for heart disease, lifestyle modifications such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, and stress management can be beneficial. Healthcare providers are encouraged to incorporate cardiovascular risk assessments into the routine care of patients with endometriosis to address these potential risks early.

Since these findings were presented at a medical conference, they should be regarded as preliminary until they are published in a peer-reviewed journal.