Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in postmenopausal women.¹ As women approach the menopause, their ovaries will gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone hormones. Decreased levels of both of these hormones can cause blood glucose levels to change. Oestrogen triggers insulin resistance, so low oestrogen will allow the body to quickly use up insulin. In addition, lower levels of oestrogen and progesterone contribute to a slower metabolism and obesity, which is itself a major cause of diabetes.² Type II diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in women over 40.²

As with cardiovascular disease, there are steps that women can take to lower their risk of diabetes – in particular physical exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. Obesity, and generally being overweight, accounts for approximately 80-90% of all patients with type II diabetes.²