The Influence of Body Mass Index on the Prevalence and Severity of Hot Flashes in Women

Background & Objective: Hot flashes are the most common and difficult symptom of menopause. Nearly ۷۵% of females have hot flashes, which are abrupt and increase in body temperature. Obesity has newly been recognized as a possible predictor of Vasomotor Symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and nocturnal sweating. This study was conducted with aim to investigate the association between BMI and the incidence and severity of hot flashes in women at numerous phases of the menopausal change. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional analytic study was conducted on ۱۶۵ participants from private clinics. Measured height and weight, and BMI was intended using the standard formula (kg/m²). Hot flashes were characterized as mild (heat only), moderate (heat with sweating), or severe (heat with sweating and disturbance of daily activity). Contributors were classified into premenopausal (≤۴۵ years), perimenopausal (۴۶-۵۰ years with regular or irregular cycles), and postmenopausal groups (≥۵۱ years with no menstruation for ۱۲ months or more). Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version ۲۶) and statistical tests. P<۰.۰۵ was considered statistically significant. Results: There was a strong link between hot flashes and age, menopausal status, and BM. Women with obesity (BMI>۳۰) were more likely to report hot flashes (۵۹.۴%) compared to those of normal weight. Postmenopausal women also reported a higher frequency and intensity of hot flashe. Conversely, educational attainment and smoking status exhibited no significant correlations. Conclusion: The most important factors for prediction of hot flashes were high BMI and menopause. Socio-demographic factors had a small effect. These results underscore the significance of weight management strategies in enhancing menopausal health.

کلیدواژه ها:

Hot flashes ، menopause ، Body Mass Index