Association between cigarette smoking and the risk of dysmenorrhea: A meta-analysis of observational studies Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This meta-analysis examined the association between cigarette smoking and the risk of dysmenorrhea, which refers to painful menstrual cramps. The analysis included 24 observational studies with a total of 27,091 participants. The aim was to synthesize previous findings on the relationship between smoking (both current and former) and the prevalence of dysmenorrhea, using statistical tools to assess the strength and consistency of this link. This is crucial as dysmenorrhea affects a large percentage of women, and identifying modifiable risk factors could lead to better prevention and management strategies.
Who was studied?
The study reviewed 24 observational studies involving women of reproductive age from diverse regions, including Europe, Asia, North America, and Oceania. The participants were categorized into smokers (current and former) and non-smokers, with ages ranging from 12 to 59 years. These studies varied in design, including case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. The focus was on women who reported experiencing dysmenorrhea, with some studies specifying primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation without underlying pathology) and others reporting any form of menstrual pain.
Most important findings
The pooled analysis indicated that cigarette smokers were 1.45 times more likely to experience dysmenorrhea than non-smokers. Current smokers were 1.50 times more likely to suffer from dysmenorrhea compared to those who had never smoked. Former smokers had a 1.31-fold increased risk compared to non-smokers. Subgroup analysis showed that the association was strongest in cross-sectional studies and for primary dysmenorrhea, with smokers having a 56% increased likelihood of developing primary dysmenorrhea.
Key implications
The study strongly suggests that smoking, both current and former, significantly increases the risk of dysmenorrhea. This finding highlights the potential for smoking cessation programs as an intervention to reduce the prevalence of dysmenorrhea among women of reproductive age. The consistent association observed across different study types and regions underscores the relevance of smoking as a modifiable risk factor for this condition. Health education campaigns focused on the dangers of smoking and its impact on menstrual health could be instrumental in reducing the burden of dysmenorrhea.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.