Mediterranean climate is associated with early age at menopause and low high-density lipoprotein in postmenopausal women

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of three different climates on age at menopause and metabolic factors in postmenopausal women. Methods. Study population consisted of 232 postmenopausal women with natural menopause who admitted to Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity and Women's Health Teaching and Research Hospital Menopause outpatient clinic for routine check up. Participants were divided into three groups according to climate where they had lived during reproductive span. Black Sea, Mediterranean, and continental climate effects on age at menopause and metabolic factors were investigated. Results. Postmenopausal women living in three different climates were significantly different according to body mass index, gravidity, age at menopause, menarche, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p < 0.05). The lowest mean age at menopause and HDL levels were observed in women living in Mediterranean climate. Adjusted mean age at menopause remained significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Mediterranean climate is associated with early menopause and low HDL levels.