Good News about Longevity and Women’s Hormonal Health
There is good news about the effects of hormone therapy on aging and longevity in women. Recent research has emerged with significant implications for women’s health, particularly for those experiencing estradiol (E2) deficiency during later life (menopause). A study published in JAMA Network Open highlights how hormone therapy (HT) can keep women’s bodies functioning younger, as indicated by various blood markers that measure “biological age.”
The study focused on over 117,000 postmenopausal women, investigating how hormone therapy influences the discrepancies between chronological age—how old a person is—and biological age—how well the body operates. The researchers sought to understand whether socioeconomic status (SES), including factors such as education and income, plays a role in this relationship. To assess biological age, the investigators utilized nine blood biomarkers: albumin, creatinine, glucose, log-transformed C-reactive protein, lymphocyte percent, mean cell volume, red blood cell distribution width, alkaline phosphatase, and white blood cell count.
Findings from the analysis indicated that women who underwent hormone therapy appeared biologically younger compared to those who did not utilize HT. Notably, the results demonstrated that hormone therapy is associated with a reduced gap between chronological and biological age. Furthermore, the benefits of hormone therapy in minimizing these age differences were especially pronounced among women with lower socioeconomic status, suggesting that HT may help mitigate health disparities related to aging.
Additionally, previous independent studies have shown that hormone therapy is linked to lower mortality rates among menopausal women. The researchers proposed that the smaller aging discrepancy associated with HT usage could provide insight into why it correlates with a reduced risk of mortality in these women.
This research underscores the importance of addressing E2 deficiency during menopause, as it has profound effects on women’s health. The findings suggest that hormone therapy not only alleviates menopausal symptoms but may also contribute to healthier aging, particularly for those facing socioeconomic challenges.
While the results are promising and promote the continued use of hormone therapy for managing E2 deficiency in older women, the researchers stress the necessity for further studies. Additional evidence will be vital in confirming the clinical benefits of hormone therapy and its effects on longevity and overall health outcomes.
In light of these developments, individuals considering hormone therapy or seeking advice regarding E2 deficiency are encouraged to consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance. Staying informed is crucial for optimal health management as we navigate the complexities of aging.
