The LIFE study: a cross-sectional study protocol for LIfestyle risk Factors for chronic disease across the stagEs of reproductive ageing

11 Jun 20264 min read0 viewsJournal Feed

GIST (Key Takeaways)

Introduction The dynamic physiological and hormonal changes through the menopause transition predispose women to an increased risk of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, depression and dementia. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, yet it is thought that chronic systemic inflammation and changes to lifestyle behaviours play important roles. The LIfestyle risk Factors for chronic disease across the stagEs of reproductive ageing (LIFE study) is a cross-sectional study aimed to characterise how hormonal and lifestyle (physical activity, diet and sleep) differences across pre, peri and postmenopause influence chronic systemic inflammation, visceral adiposity, cognitive function and sleep health.
Methods and analysis Women aged between 40 and 65 years were recruited and classified into pre, peri or postmenopausal groups. Body composition measures and blood samples were collected. Sleep and physical activity were objectively measured using activPAL4 and ActiGraph GT9X link accelerometer over 7 days.
Participants were also provided with a sleep diary. Physical function was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery. Cognitive function was evaluated using Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-III and Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.

Clinical Editorial

Summary

BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 11 Jun 2026.

The item focuses on The LIFE study: a cross-sectional study protocol for LIfestyle risk Factors for chronic disease across the stagEs of reproductive ageing.

Review the original article for the full source wording and details.