Identifying how menopause impacts risks of stroke and Alzheimer's

Identifying how menopause impacts risks of stroke and Alzheimer's

From River to River by Iowa Public Radio

June 3, 2026 · 48 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the impact of menopause on women's stroke risk and brain health, featuring insights from neurologists at the University of Iowa.

Women are more vulnerable to strokes, yet they're historically underreported and underdiagnosed. On this episode, the science of menopause and the aging brain. First, University of Iowa neurologist Dr. Hannah Roeder shares how stroke risk in women nearly doubles in the decade after menopause, and the gender disparities of stroke cases, response, and recovery. Then, we learn about a new study to examine whether the menopause transition quietly accelerates brain and blood vessel aging. Finally, University of Iowa Comprehensive Stroke Center Head Dr. Enrique Leira joins to share how the Code Stroke system has improved recognition and response to strokes for the past 20 years across the state.

People in this episode

Guests: Dr. Hannah Roeder, Dr. Enrique Leira

Topics covered

  • menopause
  • stroke risk
  • Alzheimer's
  • gender disparities
  • aging brain
  • healthcare response

Keywords

  • menopause
  • stroke
  • Alzheimer's
  • brain aging
  • gender disparities
  • healthcare

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Iowa, University of Iowa Comprehensive Stroke Center

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