KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Health and Wellness is moving to improve support for women experiencing perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause through expanded public education, increased access to care and a structured treatment framework at the primary health care level.

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, said it is time to confront the often-overlooked impact of menopause on women’s quality of life.

“For too long, menopause has been treated as a taboo subject. At the Ministry of Health and Wellness, we are seeking to change that narrative by ensuring that every woman, no matter where she lives, has access to information, care and support,” Dr Tufton said.

According to data from the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, there are currently an estimated 130,000 menopausal women, 76,200 perimenopausal women and 75,000 postmenopausal women in Jamaica.

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, following 12 consecutive months without menstruation. It can also result from surgical removal of the ovaries or medical interventions such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Perimenopause—the transition period leading up to menopause—can last several years and affect women’s physical, emotional, mental and social well-being, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Globally, women over 50 accounted for 26 per cent of all women and girls in 2021, up from 22 per cent a decade earlier. Symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats can persist for up to 10 years in postmenopausal women.

Dr Tufton explained that the ministry’s primary healthcare life stage approach will include public education, routine physician examinations and advice at the primary care level.

He also acknowledged concerns about the limited availability of medications to ease symptoms and assured that steps are being taken to address this gap.

“I am aware that there is a particular concern about the non-availability of medications that can help to ease the symptoms. We are currently examining how this can be addressed, and I am committed to ensuring that this is done,” he said.

The ministry is also emphasising mental health support, encouraging women in need to access counselling services or call the mental health hotline at 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433).

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, urged women experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, anxiety or difficulty sleeping to visit their nearest health centre or speak with a healthcare provider.