Genome wide association studies identified over 44 SNPs that are associated with age of onset of natural menopause (ANM).

Genes linked with ANM are classified into three groups: genes implicated in genome stability, immune and mitochondrial function.

Biological and epidemiological data indicate that reproductive performance, age at menopause and longevity are interlinked through genome stability genes.

Aging of the soma as a result of inefficient DNA repair appears also responsible for failure to reproduce and the subsequent menopause.

Hence reproductive performance is strongly linked to the health of the soma and is a very good predictor for general health in later life.