Study Explores Link Between Green Spaces and Age at Menopause

Understanding Menopause

Menopause, the natural cessation of menstruation in older women, marks a significant phase in the aging process. While it is a normal biological occurrence, menopause can be associated with various physical and mental health challenges. Research indicates that experiencing menopause at a later age may contribute to improved overall survival and longevity.

Factors Influencing Age at Menopause

In addition to genetic influences, several lifestyle factors can impact the age at which menopause occurs. These include smoking, obesity, physical activity levels, and the use of oral contraceptives. Green spaces have been linked to numerous health benefits; however, their specific effect on the timing of menopause remains unclear.

Research Overview

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bergen and the Barcelona Institute for Global Health investigated the relationship between proximity to green spaces and the age at menopause. Their findings were published in the journal Environment International.

The study analyzed data from over 1,900 women across nine European countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Estonia, Iceland, and Norway. Participants were part of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) and were monitored over two decades, during which they completed three surveys detailing their reproductive health and lifestyle factors. Additionally, blood samples were taken from the participants.

To assess exposure to green spaces, researchers utilized the satellite-based Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which measures the quantity and accessibility of green areas.

Findings on Menopause Timing

The results revealed that women residing in neighborhoods with minimal green space experienced menopause at an average age of 50.3 years, while those living near abundant green spaces reported an average onset age of 51.7 years. This indicates a significant difference of 1.4 years between the two groups.

Potential Mechanisms Behind the Findings

The study suggests that living in greener neighborhoods may be linked to a delay in the onset of menopause, potentially slowing reproductive aging. Various physiological mechanisms could account for this relationship. Increased stress is known to elevate blood cortisol levels, whereas exposure to green spaces has been shown to lower these levels. Lower cortisol is associated with elevated levels of estradiol, an essential hormone for female reproduction.

Dr. Kai Triebner, the lead author of the study, noted, “Perhaps women who live near green spaces have lower cortisol levels, which would allow them to maintain higher levels of estradiol, which may, in turn, delay the onset of menopause.” Additionally, greener environments are associated with a reduced risk of depression, a condition that has been linked to earlier menopause.

Implications for Public Policy

The study’s findings could have significant implications for public health policies. Dr. Payam Dadvand, the study coordinator, stated, “If confirmed, our findings will add to the body of evidence on the health benefits of green space and help policymakers to implement interventions aimed at decelerating reproductive aging in our rapidly urbanizing world.”

References

1. Triebner K, Markevych I, Hustad S, et al. Residential surrounding greenspace and age at menopause: A 20-year European study (ECRHS). Environment International 2019;132:105088. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2019.105088
2. Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal). Press release 13 Feb 2020. “Living in greener neighborhoods may postpone the natural onset of menopause.” https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-02/bifg-lig021320.php

Image by Grzegorz Skibka from Pixabay