Low Awareness of Menopause-Related Health Risks in the Philippines, Survey Reveals

Menopause, a natural and inevitable phase in a woman’s life, is often neglected as a significant health concern. While it is true that menopause is a normal part of the aging process, it is crucial to recognize and address the potential health implications that may arise during this transitional period. To assess the validity of this claim, Capstone-Intel Corporation conducted a nationwide survey on the public perception and awareness of menopause among Filipinos.

The survey was conducted between September 20-27, 2023, with a sample of 1,210 respondents. Nationally, 91% of the respondents indicated familiarity with the term “menopause.” Additionally, 3-5% reported being unsure whether they had heard of menopause.

The study conducted by Capstone-Intel also assessed the respondents’ level of awareness regarding diseases commonly associated with menopause. The findings revealed that 30% of the participants exhibited knowledge concerning the increased risk of osteoporosis during this stage of life. Additionally, 12% demonstrated awareness of the heightened risk of heart disease linked to menopause. Furthermore, only 12% of the respondents believe that there is adequate awareness and support for menopause-related matters in their community.

According to Capstone-Intel, the data provided highlights an existing knowledge gap among the public regarding menopause, which warrants attention and assistance due to its significant impact on women’s health.

“As individuals age, their risk of heart disease tends to increase. It is important to prioritize heart disease as a significant health concern related to menopause. It is critical to keep in mind that heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in our nation. Furthermore, osteoporosis is commonly referred to as a ‘silent disease,’ and menopause elevates the risk of developing this condition. During menopause, women face a heightened likelihood of developing osteoporosis, which renders their bones brittle and more susceptible to fractures,” explained Capstone-Intel.

“Ensuring a well-informed public about menopause and its impact on women’s health is crucial for promoting their overall well-being and fostering greater understanding and appreciation from their families. A potential solution to achieve this is through the implementation of a national campaign by the government,” it suggested.

Also, the study indicated that 36% of the respondents expressed willingness to engage in discussions with their families regarding the symptoms of menopause and its impacts.

Furthermore, the data indicates that 10% of the respondents perceive menopause to have a detrimental effect on overall quality of life.

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