Stop treating menopause as an afterthought

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing in response to the letter titled ‘An urgent call for comprehensive menopausal healthcare’ which highlights an undeniable truth – menopause care in Jamaica is woefully inadequate, and the consequences are far-reaching. But beyond the personal struggles, there is a staggering financial toll that businesses and economies worldwide can no longer afford to ignore.

The fallout is undeniable. Nine out of 10 women say menopause symptoms affect their work, one in 10 quit their jobs entirely, and globally, productivity losses exceed $150 billion globally each year. Yet, despite these glaring statistics, most workplaces remain unprepared to support menopausal employees, and healthcare solutions remain fragmented, leaving women to suffer in silence. It’s time to change the narrative.

Beyond the workplace, untreated menopause contributes to higher rates of anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis, increasing healthcare burdens and reducing quality of life. Without proper care, women are forced to endure unnecessary suffering – impacting families, businesses, and national economies.

But this must go beyond individual solutions – we need systemic change.

Let’s stop treating menopause as an afterthought and start recognising it as a critical health and economic priority.

DR CHARMAINE THOMAS