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Godoy-Izquierdo D, de Teresa C, Mendoza N. Exercise for peri- and postmenopausal women: Recommendations from synergistic alliances of women's medicine and health psychology for the promotion of an active lifestyle. Maturitas 2024; 185:107924. [PMID: 38599003 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2024.107924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Adopting healthy behaviors is a multifaceted and complex process that poses significant challenges for individuals. Despite awareness of the detrimental effects of certain behaviors on health, many individuals continue to engage in risky practices. Traditional medical advice and prescriptions, while well intentioned, often fall short in fostering lasting lifestyle changes. Although individuals may also have good intentions, solely relying on doctor's counsel does not ensure successful lifestyle adjustments. One primary reason for this limitation is the lack of specialized expertise in behavioral modification among gynecologists and healthcare providers. Health psychologists are specialized professionals capable of effectively guiding and assisting individuals in modifying health-related behaviors. Their expertise in behavior change strategies and psychological interventions proves invaluable in empowering individuals to embrace healthier lifestyles and contributes to people's well-being. This paper emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between medical professionals, such as gynecologists, and health psychologists to promote healthy behaviors among peri- and postmenopausal women and enhance women's health. By forging integrative alliances, they can develop comprehensive and tailored interventions. By bridging the gap between medical advice and behavior modification, this collaborative effort has the potential to ensure a more effective intervention process. This holistic approach not only addresses women's specific health needs but also fosters sustainable behavior change when promoting healthy behaviors among middle-aged women. The ultimate goal of such a synergy is to improve women's health outcomes and contribute to a healthier society overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Godoy-Izquierdo
- Health Psychology & Behavioral Medicine Research Group (CTS-267), University Research Institute of Women and Gender Studies, University of Granada, Rector López Argueta w/n, 18071 Granada, Spain; Department of Personality and Psychological Assessment & Treatment, Faculty of Psychology, University of Granada, C.U. Cartuja w/n, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - Carlos de Teresa
- Andalusian Center of Sports Medicine (CAMD), Ed. IMUDS, Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Avda. del Conocimiento w/n, 18007 Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Mendoza
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. de la Investigación 11, 18071 Granada Spain.
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Militello R, Luti S, Gamberi T, Pellegrino A, Modesti A, Modesti PA. Physical Activity and Oxidative Stress in Aging. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:557. [PMID: 38790662 PMCID: PMC11117672 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13050557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological aging, characterized by changes in metabolism and physicochemical properties of cells, has an impact on public health. Environment and lifestyle, including factors like diet and physical activity, seem to play a key role in healthy aging. Several studies have shown that regular physical activity can enhance antioxidant defense mechanisms, including the activity of enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. However, intense or prolonged exercise can also lead to an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production temporarily, resulting in oxidative stress. This phenomenon is referred to as "exercise-induced oxidative stress". The relationship between physical activity and oxidative stress in aging is complex and depends on various factors such as the type, intensity, duration, and frequency of exercise, as well as individual differences in antioxidant capacity and adaptation to exercise. In this review, we analyzed what is reported by several authors regarding the role of physical activity on oxidative stress in the aging process as well as the role of hormesis and physical exercise as tools for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia, an aging-related disease. Finally, we reported what has recently been studied in relation to the effect of physical activity and sport on aging in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Militello
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.M.); (S.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Simone Luti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.M.); (S.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Tania Gamberi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.M.); (S.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Alessio Pellegrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.P.); (P.A.M.)
| | - Alessandra Modesti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (R.M.); (S.L.); (T.G.)
| | - Pietro Amedeo Modesti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (A.P.); (P.A.M.)
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Witkowski S, White Q, Shreyer S, Brown DE, Sievert LL. The influence of habitual physical activity and sedentary behavior on objective and subjective hot flashes at midlife. Menopause 2024; 31:381-389. [PMID: 38530999 PMCID: PMC11052676 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate relationships between physical activity, sedentary time, and hot flashes during both waking and sleeping periods using concurrent objective and subjective measures of hot flashes in midlife women. METHODS Women aged 45 to 55 years (n = 196) provided self-reported data on physical activity and underwent 24 hours of hot flash monitoring using sternal skin conductance. Participants used event marking and logs to indicate when hot flashes were perceived. Wake and sleep periods were defined by actigraphy. Mean ambient temperature and humidity were recorded during the study period. Generalized linear regression modeling was used to evaluate the effect of physical activity types and sedentary time on hot flash outcomes. Isotemporal substitution modeling was used to study the effect of replacing sedentary time with activity variables on hot flash frequency. RESULTS Modeled results indicated that increasing sitting by 1 hour was associated with a 7% increase in the rate of objectively measured but not subjectively reported hot flashes during sleep. Replacing 1 hour of sitting with 1 hour of vigorous activity was associated with a 100% increase in subjectively reported but not objectively measured waking hot flashes. There was little evidence for an effect of temperature or humidity on any hot flash outcome. CONCLUSIONS These data provide support for relations between sedentary time, physical activity, and hot flashes and highlight the importance of using objective and subjective assessments to better understand the 24-hour hot flash experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Witkowski
- From the Department of Exercise and Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Quinn White
- From the Department of Exercise and Sport Studies, Smith College, Northampton, MA
| | - Sofiya Shreyer
- Department of Anthropology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
| | - Daniel E Brown
- Department of Anthropology, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI
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Elavsky S, Burda M, Cipryan L, Kutáč P, Bužga M, Jandackova V, Chow SM, Jandacka D. Physical activity and menopausal symptoms: evaluating the contribution of obesity, fitness, and ambient air pollution status. Menopause 2024; 31:310-319. [PMID: 38377450 PMCID: PMC10959689 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The menopausal transition is accompanied by transient symptoms that have been linked to subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD); CVD has also been linked to air pollution. Physical activity (PA) reduces CVD, improves body composition, and can reduce menopausal symptoms. The purpose of this study was to assess the links between PA and menopausal symptoms and whether obesity, fitness, and air pollution status play a role in this relationship. METHODS Women (40-60 y; N = 243; mean [SD] age, 47.8 [5.6] y) from areas with high versus low air pollution enrolled in the Healthy Aging in Industrial Environment Program 4 prospective cohort study completed psychological, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and menopausal status screening followed by a 14-day prospective assessment of menopausal symptoms (Menopause Rating Scale) using a mobile application. Daily PA was assessed objectively across 14 days via Fitbit Charge 3 monitor. General linear mixed models were conducted and controlled for age, menopausal status, day in the study, wear time, and neuroticism. RESULTS Peri/postmenopausal women ( β = 0.43, P < 0.001) and those residing in a high-air-pollution environment ( β = 0.45, P < 0.05) reported more somatovegetative symptoms. Hot flashes alone were associated with peri/postmenopausal status ( β = 0.45, P < 0.001), and for women residing in a high-air-pollution environment, lower reporting of hot flashes was observed on days when a woman was more physically active than usual ( β = -0.15, P < 0.001). No associations were found for cardiorespiratory fitness and visceral fat with any of the symptoms. CONCLUSIONS PA may enhance resilience to hot flashes, especially when residing in high-air-pollution environments where we also observed higher reporting of somatovegetative menopausal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steriani Elavsky
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Burda
- Institute for Research and Applications of Fuzzy Modeling, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic IT4Innovations
| | - Lukáš Cipryan
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kutáč
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Bužga
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Vera Jandackova
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Sy-Miin Chow
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University, USA
| | - Daniel Jandacka
- Department of Human Movement Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
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Godoy-Izquierdo D, Lara-Moreno R, Ogallar-Blanco A, González J, de Teresa C, Mendoza N. The AHAWOMEN project: study protocol of a multi-design research for exploring HAPA predictors of exercise in postmenopausal women. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:204. [PMID: 37438855 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01245-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The postmenopausal period can represent an opportunity for women to improve their health and well-being. The Active and Healthy Ageing in Women during early postmenopause (AHAWOMEN) study aims to identify the key determinants of an active lifestyle among middle-aged women, with a focus on the stages and the social-cognitive variables outlined in the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model, a theoretical framework for understanding health behaviour change. We expected that HAPA factors and processes of intention creation (motivational phase) and action adoption (volitional phase) will be significant predictors of exercise initiation and maintenance, supporting both the HAPA tenets and the efficacy of HAPA-based interventions. METHODS/DESIGN This study was approved by the authors' Institutional Review Committee. Postmenopausal women aged between 45 and 65 years will voluntarily participate. The participants will be allocated to one of three groups: Intervention-Initiators (n = 100, random allocation), Control-Sedentary (n = 100, random allocation) or Control-Active (n = 100, non-random allocation). The intervention group will engage in a supervised exercise programme lasting at least 3 months, supplemented with a HAPA-based intervention for behaviour change. The sedentary control group will not receive any intervention to change their physical activity, while the active control group will consist of women who are already regularly adhering to an active lifestyle. Study variables will be measured at baseline and postintervention phases, as well as at 1, 3, 6 and 12-month follow-ups. The predictors of exercise behaviour in the different phases of the behavioural change process will be explored and compared within and between groups throughout the study. These analyses will help identify the factors that determine the adoption of a healthy active behaviour. Additionally, the effectiveness of the model and the intervention for changing active behaviour will be evaluated. DISCUSSION This paper describes the rationale, development and methods used in the AHAWOMEN project. Supporting women who intend to become active can help them to translate their goals into sustainable action. Verifying that the HAPA predictions are applicable to postmenopausal women's adoption of exercise would provide the basis for designing effective interventions for promoting healthy and active ageing that are also tailored to the experiences of middle-aged women. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN16251361. Registration date: 01/06/2023 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Godoy-Izquierdo
- Grupo de Investigación Psicología de la Salud y Medicina Conductual (CTS-267), Centro de Investigación Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento CIMCYC, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain.
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación de Estudios de las Mujeres y de Género, Universidad de Granada, Rector López Argueta s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain.
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamiento Psicológico, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain.
| | - Raquel Lara-Moreno
- Grupo de Investigación Psicología de la Salud y Medicina Conductual (CTS-267), Centro de Investigación Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento CIMCYC, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
- Departamento de Psicología Social, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
| | - Adelaida Ogallar-Blanco
- Grupo de Investigación Psicología de la Salud y Medicina Conductual (CTS-267), Centro de Investigación Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento CIMCYC, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamiento Psicológico, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
| | - Juan González
- Grupo de Investigación Psicología de la Salud y Medicina Conductual (CTS-267), Centro de Investigación Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento CIMCYC, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamiento Psicológico, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, Granada, 18071, Spain
| | - Carlos de Teresa
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, Avda. de la Investigación 11, Granada, 18071, Spain
- Centro Andaluz de Medicina del Deporte, Junta de Andalucía, Edificio IMUDS. PT Ciencias de la Salud. Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18007, Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Mendoza
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, Avda. de la Investigación 11, Granada, 18071, Spain
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Carpenter JS. Physical activity is not a recommended treatment for hot flashes. Menopause 2023; 30:121. [PMID: 36696634 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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