The reduction in estrogen production during the climacteric causes:
A) cancer
B) increased testosterone production.
C) coronary heart disease and osteoporosis
D) increased ovulation The reduction in estrogen production during the climacteric causes: -Acancer
E) increased ovulation
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: C) Coronary heart disease and osteoporosis
The climacteric is a phase in a woman’s life marked by a natural decline in reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. This process typically begins in the late 40s or early 50s and includes the transition to menopause. One of the most significant hormonal changes during this time is the substantial decrease in estrogen production.
Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining cardiovascular and bone health. When estrogen levels decline, it leads to several physiological changes. First, the reduction in estrogen affects the cardiovascular system. Estrogen helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL). With less estrogen, this protective effect is reduced, increasing the risk for coronary heart disease.
Secondly, estrogen is essential for bone density. It helps regulate bone remodeling by balancing bone resorption and formation. When estrogen levels drop, the rate of bone resorption outpaces bone formation, leading to weakened bones and increasing the risk for osteoporosis. This condition makes bones fragile and more likely to fracture, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists.
The incorrect options can be addressed as follows:
- Option A (cancer): Although hormonal changes can influence cancer risks, estrogen reduction itself does not directly cause cancer.
- Option B (increased testosterone production): Testosterone levels do not increase as a result of decreased estrogen; instead, both hormone levels generally decline with age.
- Option D (increased ovulation): Ovulation actually stops during menopause due to decreased hormonal stimulation of the ovaries.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. The drop in estrogen production during the climacteric period is a major contributor to increased risks of coronary heart disease and osteoporosis.