Andrea, 38, helps researchers track changes in women's health

Officially known as the Population Study of Women in Gothenburg, the project is generally referred to simply as the Women's Study. Since its launch in 1968, it has provided valuable insights into how women's health changes over time.

“It's exciting to be part of this long line of women stretching all the way back to the 1960s. I'm impressed that the study has continued for so long,” says Andrea Wingårdh, 38.

She had never heard of the Women's Study before receiving her invitation in the mail. But saying yes was an easy decision. Andrea regularly agrees to take part in surveys when invited, including those conducted by Statistics Sweden.
 

“I think it's important to contribute. When you have the opportunity, it almost feels like a responsibility. And at the same time, being selected feels like a bit of an honor.”

Several hours devoted to research

Researchers have established a dedicated clinic at Mölndal Hospital for the latest round of examinations in the Women's Study.

By the time we meet Andrea, she has already given blood samples, had her blood pressure checked, and undergone an electrocardiogram (ECG). Her height and weight have also been measured. The visit includes a lung function test, a medical examination that includes a thyroid check, and a dental examination of her teeth and the lining of her mouth.

“Getting an update on my own health is a nice bonus,” Andrea says.

The clinic visit takes several hours. Participants also complete extensive questionnaires about their health and lifestyle habits, which can take up to two hours.

For the first time, participants are completing the questionnaires digitally this year – a major change from when the study began in 1968. The historical research records are still preserved, occupying approximately 100 linear meters of shelving at the Health Sciences Center, University of Gothenburg.
 

Most of the questions have been part of the study since 1968, allowing researchers to track changes in health and lifestyle habits over time. Topics include alcohol, snus (Swedish smokeless tobacco), smoking, stress, physical activity, work, leisure, medications, and various diseases. Some wording, including questions about housewives and smoking habits, may seem a little dated today. However, the questionnaires have also been adapted to reflect changes in society.

A separate questionnaire focuses on personality and how participants typically think, feel, and behave.

From pear-shaped to apple-shaped

The study's long history allows researchers to compare women of the same age from different generations. This makes it possible to see how both health and lifestyle habits have changed.

“We've seen improvements in many areas. Blood pressure and blood lipid levels have improved, and physical activity has increased. At the same time, perceived stress has risen,” says Dominique Hange, who leads the Women's Study.

Women's body shapes have also changed over time.

“Put simply, women have shifted from a more pear-shaped to a more apple-shaped body type. Fat is increasingly concentrated around the abdomen, which is associated with greater health risks,” explains research administrator Lilian Weman.

Important insights into menopause

Menopause has been an important area of research since the study began. One of the early findings was that women generally appeared to feel quite well during this stage of life.

“It's important to remember that menopause is not a disease. Many women feel well, although others experience symptoms that can significantly affect their daily lives. We need to understand both what increases the risk of poor health and what helps women stay healthy,” says Dominique Hange.

Today, researchers also have new factors to consider. Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) and other hormonal treatments can alter menstrual patterns or stop periods altogether. This makes it harder to determine when a woman enters menopause based on her menstrual cycle alone.

Andrea is pleased to be part of a study that has already contributed so much knowledge. Getting a health checkup is a bonus, but what matters most to her is the opportunity to contribute to research that could help others.

“It feels good to contribute to something that could benefit other people. And being part of a study that has been going on for so long is really special.”