Early onset of menstruation increased the risk of developing diabetes

Researchers have found an association between early menstruation and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Participants with diabetes who started menstruating at the age of ten or earlier were also more likely to have a stroke.

The risk of diabetes appeared to be increased in women with an early onset of menstruation. The results of the study are published in the journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.

Early onset of menstruation was found to be associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes, with the relationship remaining significant when other risk factors, including physical activity and body mass index, were taken into account. Having first menstruation at age ten or earlier increased the risk by 2.05 times compared to those with first menstruation at age 13.

Among participants with diabetes younger than 65 years of age, those who had their first menstruation at age ten or earlier were 2.66 times more likely to have a stroke compared with those who had their first menstruation at age 13 or later.

They analyzed data from 17,377 women between the ages of 20 and 65 who participated in the NHANES national study. All participants reported the age at which their first menstrual cycle began. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated stroke as a function of age of menstrual onset was assessed. Age, race, education, motherhood, menopausal status, family history of diabetes, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and body mass index were considered in the analysis.

Diabetes was diagnosed in 1773 individuals. Cardiovascular disease was identified in 205 women. The mean age of menstrual onset was 12.68 years. 

The results of the study emphasize the importance of assessing the time of menstrual onset as an independent risk factor for the development of diabetes mellitus complicated by stroke in women.