HIV infection is independently associated with modestly reduced BMD in aging men, and decreased BMD is associated with increased fracture risk.

Objective. To study the relationship of HIV infection and drug use with the onset of natural menopause. Methods. Our analyses used the World Health Organization's definition of menopause (i.e., the date of the last menstrual period is confirmed after 12 months of amenorrhea) and baseline data from a prospective study. Semiannual interviews were conducted. Levels of HIV antibody and CD4 + cell counts were obtained. Menopause was identified at baseline or during 12 months of follow-up. Women ingesting reproductive hormones were excluded. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors associated with menopause.Results. Of 571 women, 53% were HIV infected, and 52% had used heroin or cocaine in the previous 5 years. The

HIV-infected women reported more menopause symptoms than HIV-uninfected women, but symptoms were less frequent in women with more advanced HIV disease. Depressive symptoms and negative life events were also highly associated with symptoms. Further study of menopause symptoms and HIV-related factors is warranted. Mental health interventions may also have a role in ameliorating menopause symptoms.