KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Ministry of Health and Wellness has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to enhance support for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. The program focuses on expanding public education, improving access to healthcare services, and establishing a structured treatment framework at the primary healthcare level. Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, emphasized the need to address the often-neglected impact of menopause on women’s quality of life. He stated, ‘For too long, menopause has been treated as a taboo subject. We are committed to changing this narrative by ensuring every woman, regardless of location, has access to information, care, and support.’
Data from the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, reveals that Jamaica is home to approximately 130,000 menopausal women, 76,200 perimenopausal women, and 75,000 postmenopausal women. Menopause, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, marks the end of menstruation and can result from natural processes or medical interventions such as chemotherapy. Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading to menopause, can span several years and significantly impact physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Globally, women over 50 represented 26% of all women and girls in 2021, up from 22% a decade earlier. Symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats can persist for up to a decade post-menopause.
Dr. Tufton outlined the ministry’s life stage approach, which includes public education campaigns, routine physician examinations, and accessible advice at primary care facilities. He also addressed concerns about the limited availability of medications to alleviate symptoms, assuring that efforts are underway to bridge this gap. ‘We are actively exploring solutions to ensure women have access to necessary medications,’ he affirmed. Additionally, the initiative prioritizes mental health support, encouraging women to utilize counselling services or contact the mental health hotline at 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433).
Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, Chief Medical Officer, urged women experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, anxiety, or sleep disturbances to seek assistance at their nearest health center or consult a healthcare provider. This initiative marks a significant step toward empowering Jamaican women through comprehensive care and support during this critical life stage.