Women experiencing moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms have a significantly higher risk of developing metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, according to research presented at ENDO 2024, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in Boston, Mass.

The study aimed to explore the association between vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in peri- and postmenopausal women. The cross-sectional study included 106 women from an outpatient menopause clinic.

"This research is significant as it contributes to understanding the link between vasomotor symptoms and cardiometabolic risk factors," lead researcher Eleni Armeni, M.D., said. "It is crucial for the general public because it emphasizes how hot flashes and night sweats can signal an increased risk for heart and metabolic issues."

The researchers assessed the severity of VMS, including hot flashes and night sweats, using the Greene Climacteric Scale and estimated the extent of steatotic liver disease (SLD) using the fatty liver index. They defined MASLD as the presence of hepatic steatosis along with one or more cardiometabolic risk factors, such as higher BMI, elevated fasting glucose or triglycerides, hypertension, and low HDL cholesterol.

The study found that 42 women with moderate-to-severe VMS had three times greater risk of developing MASLD compared to 64 women with mild VMS. This association was even stronger in early postmenopausal women, with those experiencing symptoms within 5 years after menopause having a 9.3 times higher risk.

The analysis adjusted for factors such as age, physical exercise, alcohol intake, smoking, history of menstrual irregularity, and HRT use, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the risk.

"Previously, vasomotor symptoms were primarily seen as indicators of estrogen deficiency, but this study suggests broader implications for cardiovascular health related to this hormonal imbalance," said Dr. Armeni. "We hope these findings will encourage health care providers to offer comprehensive care to peri- and postmenopausal women, going beyond discussions solely focused on hormone replacement therapy."

No conflicts of interest were disclosed.