THE Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) is excited to announce the upcoming Masters of Medicine Conference, set for January 2025. In recognition of World Menopause Day on October 18, HIC will host an exclusive screening of the powerful documentary The M Factor on October 17, 2024. Directed by Jacoba Atlas and produced by Women in the Room Productions and Take Flight Productions, this groundbreaking film addresses the often-ignored challenges surrounding menopause.

The event will feature the documentary screening, followed by an insightful panel discussion on the realities of perimenopause and menopause, and their profound impacts on women’s health, careers, and overall well-being. The discussion will be moderated by Dr Dainia Baugh, chair of the HIC Foundation and internist & menopause specialist, HIC alongside Rose Tavares-Finson, a certified health and fitness professional.

Panellists include Dr Sarah Lawrence Lewis, MBBS, OBGYN, Charis Women’s Wellness; Dr Raejean Porter, DPT, physiotherapist; and Dr Norrisa Haynes, MD, assistant professor of cardiology, Yale School of Medicine.

Dr Lawrence’s career in public advocacy has brought attention to women’s health issues across Jamaica and beyond. Dr Porter is an advocate for the benefits of exercise and the role it plays in overall health and well-being, particularly in Jamaica’s mature population. And Dr Haynes will share her expertise in treating patients with heart conditions, showing the connection between menopause and heart-related issues and practical steps today’s modern women can take to preserve their well-being.

The theme for this year’s conference, ‘Her Heart Matters,’ reflects HIC’s commitment to elevating discussions on women’s health, particularly menopause.

“Menopause impacts countless women in Jamaica and across the Caribbean, yet it remains shrouded in stigma. This conversation is essential for raising awareness and fostering open dialogue,” stated Dr Baugh.

The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause seeks to illuminate the often-stigmatised experiences of women during this natural phase of life. The documentary features diverse voices, sharing personal struggles and advocating for enhanced support and resources during this critical transition.

“This screening and discussion are integral to our mission of promoting women’s health and well-being,” Dr Baugh added. “Understanding menopause’s links to cardiovascular health is vital, especially in light of our conference theme.”

In addition to the panel of experts, the event will also showcase real-world perspectives from women who are leaders in their respective fields ­­— fitness, wellness, lifestyle and emotional support. These women will share their own experiences with navigating perimenopause and menopause in both the personal and professional spheres. These guests include Karla Henry, menopause coach; Jodi Mair, fitness professional; Cecile Levee, wellness advocate; and Angelie Spencer, interior designer & wellness advocate.

Since its inception in 2012, the Masters of Medicine Conference has served as a vital platform for healthcare professionals, attracting global experts and fostering local engagement with international thought leaders. The conference targets a diverse audience, including healthcare professionals, business leaders, policymakers, and social scientists, emphasising the interconnected roles of public and private sectors in healthcare.

The Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) is committed to enhancing access to high-quality cardiovascular care in the Caribbean. As the region’s leading cardiac care provider and heart hospital, HIC focuses on delivering superior service through exceptional practitioners, ensuring patient satisfaction and operational efficiency.