In which patient population are leiomyomas (fibroids) most commonly observed?

Leiomyomas, commonly known as uterine fibroids, are most frequently observed in women who are 35 years old and over. This demographic is particularly at risk due to hormonal influences and the overall reproductive lifespan. Fibroids are heavily influenced by estrogen, which tends to be higher in women in their reproductive years. As women approach the age of 35 and beyond, the prevalence of fibroids increases significantly.

In younger patients under 25 or during teenage years, the incidence of fibroids is considerably lower, as fibroids typically develop after the onset of menstruation when hormonal activity is more pronounced. Postmenopausal women experience a decline in estrogen levels, and fibroids may shrink or even become asymptomatic, which further explains their decreased prevalence in this group.

Understanding that fibroids are associated with hormonal changes during a woman's reproductive years helps clarify why the highest occurrence is seen in those aged 35 and older.