Incidence of Hot Flashes among Peri- and Postmenopausal Women in India: A Clinico-demographic Analysis.

Abstract

Background: Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes, commonly affect menopausal women aged 40-60 years and can impact the quality of life due to associated sleep disorders and mood changes. These symptoms influenced by various factors including hormonal changes, thermoregulation, and lifestyle exhibit variations in severity. Few studies indicated the prevalence and severity of hot flashes among Indian women and their correlation to body mass index (BMI), menstrual history, marital status, and employment status.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinicodemographic profile of women aged 40-60 years and correlate with the prevalence and severity of hot flashes.

Materials and methods: This multicentric and observational study aimed to investigate VMS in women aged 40-60 years across India. The study included 1479 participants meeting the specific inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria. The primary outcomes focused on determining the prevalence of hot flashes in Indian women aged 40-60 years and studying their clinicodemographic profile. In addition, an integrated profile study aimed to correlate the prevalence of hot flashes with their severity. The secondary outcomes included examining the regional distribution of hot flashes in India and understanding its co-relationship with hysterectomy, religion, marital status, and employment status. Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire covering demographic details, menstrual history, and the classification of menopausal symptoms based on the Menopausal Rating Scale. The questionnaire facilitated the assessment of variables such as age, BMI, religion, and employment status. Statistical analyses were conducted to explore the associations between these variables and the incidence and severity of VMS.

Results: In this study, involving 1479 participants aged between 40 and 60 years, 37.6% (n = 557) reported experiencing hot flashes with 24.7%, 10.8%, and 2.23% reporting severity of mild, moderate, and severe intensity, respectively. Concomitant symptoms such as night sweats, abdominal discomfort, sleep disturbances, and chest discomfort were experienced. Hysterectomy was significantly associated with the prevalence of hot flashes (P < 0.001). The baseline demographics reveal regional variations in symptom prevalence, with distinct patterns observed across different zones in India. While on the other hand, BMI, religion, education, and employment status did not exhibit significant associations with hot flashes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study emphasizes the significant prevalence of hot flashes among Indian women, with regional variations and notable associations with menstrual history and hysterectomy. Other identified variables such as religion, employment status, BMI, and marital status did not correlate with the incidence of hot flashes.