Letter of the Day | Urgent call for comprehensive menopausal healthcare

THE EDITOR, Madam:

This is an open letter to Minister of Health and Wellness Christopher Tufton.

I write on behalf of countless Jamaican women who are suffering in silence due to the severe lack of access to proper menopause treatment. As a nation, we have made significant strides in healthcare, yet menopause – something that affects half our population – remains largely ignored. The absence of a full range of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) options, including patches, gels, sprays, tablets, and implants, is leaving thousands of women struggling daily with debilitating symptoms that affect not only their health, but also their families, workplaces, and the broader economy.

March, as Women’s History Month, presents the perfect opportunity to take decisive action and prioritise the well-being of women. We need immediate intervention, and the time to act is now.

Menopause is not just a ‘woman’s issue’ – it is a national issue with significant economic and social consequences. When left untreated, the symptoms of menopause do not just affect the individual; they create ripple effects across the board.

• The mood swings, anxiety, depression, and loss of libido caused by menopause often lead to increased marital conflicts and even divorce. Families suffer as relationships become strained due to untreated symptoms.

• Many women struggle to focus at work due to brain fog, fatigue, and poor sleep. The UK reports that one in 10 women leave their jobs due to menopause, costing businesses millions. Jamaica is no exception – untreated symptoms mean higher absenteeism, reduced productivity, and talent loss in key industries.

• Without access to proper HRT, women develop osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and mental health issues, increasing the burden on Jamaica’s healthcare system. Early intervention saves money in the long run by preventing more serious conditions.

• When women cannot function at their best, entire communities suffer. Mothers, caregivers, business leaders, and employees all struggle, leading to lower overall productivity and economic stagnation. A nation that neglects its women’s health cannot progress.

Multiple studies, including those from the British Menopause Society and National Health Service, have shown that HRT is safe and effective when used appropriately. It is proven to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and cognitive decline, while significantly improving the quality of life for menopausal women.

In other countries, women have access to a full range of HRT options, allowing them and their doctors to choose the safest and most effective treatment for their needs. Yet here in Jamaica, women are left with little to no options–forcing many to suffer needlessly or resort to dangerous, unregulated sources.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness should take immediate action by implementing the following:

• Work with suppliers to guarantee that all forms of HRT – patches, gels, sprays, implants, and tablets — are readily available and affordable. Women should not have to wait or travel abroad for essential medication.

• Many doctors lack proper training in menopause management. Implementing mandatory education programmes will ensure that women receive accurate, up-to-date medical advice.

• Encourage businesses to adopt menopause-friendly policies, such as flexible work arrangements and awareness training, to reduce absenteeism and retain experienced professionals.

• Public education is key. Many women do not even realise their symptoms are due to menopause, leading to unnecessary suffering. A nationwide campaign can help break the stigma and ensure women seek the help they need.

Honourable Minister, it is imperative to act now.

Jamaican women have been ignored for too long when it comes to menopause. This is a matter of human rights, economic stability, and public health. If we fail to act, we will continue to see the breakdown of families, declining workplace performance, and rising healthcare costs.

March being observed as Women’s History Month is the perfect time to begin making real change. I urge you to act now, so that no woman in Jamaica has to suffer in silence any longer.

MINAD CALLUM