Background: Obesity and metabolic syndrome is very common now a days in postmenopausal women. Increased deposition of visceral fat can lead to autonomic dysfunction. Obesity and autonomic derangements can cause various cardiovascular diseases in women after menopause. Early detection of changes in body weight and autonomic disturbances can help formulate preventive strategies for menopausal women.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study is to compare anthropometric indices and sympathetic nervous system activity between menstruating and postmenopausal women.
Materials and Methods: The study included two groups of 50 women each. Group I included menstruating women of age 25–35 years while Group II included postmenopausal women of age group 50–60 years. Anthropometric parameters such as body weight, height, body mass index, and waist hip ratio were recorded in both the groups. Sympathetic function tests such as cold pressor test, handgrip tests, and blood pressure response to standing were performed on all the participants. Statistical analysis was done using Student’s t-test.
Results: There was statistically significant difference in anthropometric indices and sympathetic function tests in both the groups.
Conclusion: There is increased incidence of obesity with sympathetic hyperactivity in menopausal women as compared to menstruating women.
Key words: Menopause; Anthropometric Indices; Sympathetic Activity; Obesity
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