The midlife stage in women is characterized by significant changes related to aging, menopause, and lifestyle. As a result, weight gain in women is a common occurrence and predisposes to overweight and obesity, particularly in the central distribution. On one hand, aging is associated with decreased energy expenditure and physical activity, two important culprits for weight gain, even in the setting of stable dietary habits. On the other hand, the hormonal changes of menopause, characterized by decreased estrogen levels, influence body adiposity distribution and contribute to increased central adiposity. These body changes can have important health consequences such as the development of cardiometabolic diseases, mechanical complications, cancer, changes in cognition and mental health, and worsening menopause symptoms. In clinical practice, efforts should focus on early counseling and anticipatory guidance on the importance of dietary changes and physical activity to mitigate this phenomenon. It is also important to identify challenges to adopting a healthier lifestyle.

For this session, I will first summarize the evidence on weight gain and body composition changes in midlife women. Second, I will explain the etiology and pathophysiology of weight gain and body composition changes, focusing on the effect of aging and menopause. Third, I will review the evidence of the prevalence of adiposity-associated diseases in midlife women and the role of body composition changes and menopause. Finally, I will discuss practical aspects to manage weight concerns in midlife women.

CME/CE Expiration Date: 4/26/27

*The expiration date listed above is the last day CME/CE credit can be claimed for this specific presentation.