The program will aim to change the behavior of women who exercise sporadically or not at all and will be led by "mavens" or "pioneers," women leaders in the community. The pioneers will help discover what does and does not work, design and test the program, and transmit its value to other community members. The aim is to create a "buzz" around the cardiovascular risks following menopause, particularly for the development of visceral fat, and the role of physical activity and stress management in preventing them.

"Visceral fat develops in women during the menopausal transition with the shift from an estrogen- to a testosterone-dominated hormonal milieu," Powell said. "We can't change the hormonal balance that comes with menopause, but we can change other factors, like physical activity and stress management, both of which have been shown to be very effective in reducing visceral fat.

"Other programs have sought to increase physical activity by focusing primarily on motivating the individual. But to effect lasting change, a person's social networks and community need to be involved."

Source: Rush University Medical Center