Global Leaders Unveil Declaration on Menopause: Call for WHO and National Policies to Support Menopausal Women

Global Declaration Launched to Prioritize Menopause Support for Billions of Women

New York, October 20, 2025 – A coalition of leading health experts and advocates today unveiled the Power in Menopause Declaration, a groundbreaking initiative designed to elevate Menopause to a global health priority. The campaign calls for urgent action from the World Health Organization (WHO),national governments,and corporations to address the widespread neglect surrounding this universal experience.

The Scale of the Issue

By 2030, an estimated 1.2 billion women worldwide will be navigating menopause or its aftermath. Despite its prevalence, menopause remains considerably under-researched and underfunded, leaving the vast majority of women to grapple with debilitating symptoms without adequate support.Recent studies indicate that approximately 80% of women experience noticeable symptoms that can profoundly impact their health, personal relationships, and professional lives.

The lack of attention to menopause results in approximately 2.4 million years of healthy life lost annually due to symptomatic distress. Systemic issues – including limited training for healthcare professionals, restricted access to evidence-based treatments, and a lack of thorough national policies – contribute to a climate where millions suffer in silence.

Economic and Workforce Impacts

The consequences of untreated menopause extend beyond individual health and well-being, creating substantial economic burdens. Women nearing or experiencing menopause represent a rapidly growing segment of the global workforce. Alarmingly, nearly one in four working women have considered leaving their jobs or have already resigned due to the impact of menopause symptoms.

Experts estimate that improved management of menopause symptoms could boost the global economy by as much as $120 billion USD annually. This highlights the compelling economic imperative to invest in menopause-related research, healthcare, and workplace accommodations.

The Power in Menopause Declaration: A Call to Action

The Power in Menopause Declaration demands comprehensive action in three key areas: the establishment of national menopause policies, the development of standardized clinical guidance, and the implementation of supportive workplace initiatives. This initiative is spearheaded by twenty prominent leaders from diverse sectors and nations, with further endorsements anticipated.

“Menopause marks a significant life transition for women, and it’s time we provide the necessary support and resources,” stated Katja Iversen, a co-lead of the Power in Menopause campaign and CEO of the Museum for the United Nations – UN Live.”This campaign validates this natural phase and ensures it is no longer dismissed or misunderstood.”

Saundra Pelletier, CEO of Evofem Biosciences and another campaign co-lead, added, “No woman should endure menopause alone, uninformed, or without access to effective treatments.”

Key Campaign Co-Leads

Name	Affiliation
Núria Casamitjana Badia	University of Barcelona; Barcelona Institute for Global Health
Cynthia Berkley	Berkley Consulting; Columbia University Presbyterian Hospital
Peggy dulany	Synergos
Helen Evans AO	University of Melbourne
Jane Halton	I caught; Australian Council on Aging; Australian National University

Did You Know? The average duration of menopause symptoms is 7.4 years, but for some women, they can persist for a decade or more.

Pro Tip: Open interaction with healthcare providers is crucial for managing menopause symptoms effectively. Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns and explore available treatment options.

Individuals and organizations are encouraged to demonstrate their support by signing the Power in Menopause Declaration at www.powerinmenopause.org.

Understanding Menopause Beyond the Headlines

While this campaign rightly focuses on systemic change, individual awareness and proactive health management are equally important. Menopause is not a disease, but a natural biological process. Understanding the various stages and symptoms-which can range from hot flashes and sleep disturbances to mood swings and cognitive changes-allows women to seek appropriate support and make informed decisions about their health.

Furthermore, lifestyle interventions such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can significantly mitigate the impact of menopause symptoms. Resources like the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) and the Menopause Support Network offer valuable facts and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Menopause

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The Landmark Declaration: A Turning Point for Women’s Health

On October 20, 2025, a critically important declaration addressing the global health needs of women experiencing menopause was unveiled by global leaders. This pivotal moment signifies a growing recognition of menopause not merely as a natural life stage,but as a public health issue demanding focused attention and comprehensive support. The core of the declaration centers around a call for the World Health Institution (WHO) to prioritize menopause research and policy advancement, alongside urging national governments to implement supportive measures for menopausal women. This initiative aims to destigmatize menopause, improve access to care, and empower women navigating this transition.

Why This Declaration Matters: Addressing a Global Health Gap

for decades, menopause has been largely overlooked in global health agendas. This has resulted in:

* Limited Research: A significant lack of funding and research dedicated to understanding the long-term health impacts of menopause, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline.

* Insufficient Healthcare Access: Many women lack access to appropriate healthcare services, including hormone therapy (HT), pelvic floor physiotherapy, and mental health support, specifically tailored to their menopausal needs.

* Widespread Stigma: A pervasive societal stigma surrounding menopause, leading to silence, shame, and a reluctance to seek help. This impacts women’s quality of life, work productivity, and overall well-being.

* Economic Impact: The impact of menopause symptoms on workforce participation and productivity is substantial, representing a significant economic burden.

The declaration directly addresses these gaps, aiming to shift the narrative and prioritize women’s health during this crucial life stage. Key terms like perimenopause, postmenopause, and menopause symptoms are now firmly on the global health agenda.

Key Demands of the Declaration: A Multi-Faceted Approach

The declaration outlines several key demands, focusing on both global and national levels:

WHO’s Role: Global Leadership and Standardization

* Increased Research Funding: A substantial increase in funding for menopause research, focusing on the biological, psychological, and social aspects of the transition. This includes investigating the efficacy and safety of various menopause treatments.

* Development of Global Guidelines: The creation of standardized guidelines for the diagnosis and management of menopause, ensuring consistent care across different regions.

* Data Collection & surveillance: Establishing robust data collection systems to monitor the prevalence of menopause and its associated health outcomes.

* Training for Healthcare Professionals: Implementing training programs for healthcare professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills in providing menopause care.

National Government Responsibilities: Implementing Supportive Policies

* National Menopause Strategies: Development and implementation of national menopause strategies, outlining specific goals and actions to support menopausal women.

* Healthcare Access: Ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare services, including specialist menopause clinics and subsidized hormone therapy were appropriate.

* Workplace Support: implementing workplace policies that accommodate the needs of menopausal women, such as flexible working arrangements and access to appropriate facilities.

* Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching public awareness campaigns to destigmatize menopause and promote open conversations about women’s health.

* Education & Awareness: Integrating menopause education into school curricula and healthcare professional training programs.

understanding the Science: Hormonal Changes and Beyond

Menopause is a biological process marked by the cessation of ovarian function, leading to a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. however, it’s far more complex than just hormonal changes. The declaration acknowledges the interplay of various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental influences.

Common menopause symptoms include:

* Hot flashes and night sweats

* Sleep disturbances

* Mood swings and anxiety

* Vaginal dryness

* Urinary problems

* cognitive changes (brain fog)

* Joint pain

Understanding these symptoms and their impact on women’s lives is crucial for providing effective care. The declaration emphasizes the need for a holistic approach, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the psychological and social challenges associated with menopause.

Benefits of Prioritizing Menopause: A win-Win for All

Investing in menopause research and support offers numerous benefits:

* Improved Women’s Health: Reduced risk of chronic diseases, improved quality of life, and increased longevity for menopausal women.

* Enhanced Economic Productivity: Increased workforce participation and productivity as women are better supported to manage their symptoms.

* Reduced Healthcare Costs: Proactive management of menopause-related health risks can reduce the need for costly interventions in the long term.

* Greater Gender Equality: Recognizing and addressing the specific health needs of women contributes to greater gender equality and empowerment.

* Positive Societal impact: destigmatizing menopause fosters open conversations about women’s health and promotes a more inclusive society.

Practical Tips for Navigating Menopause

While awaiting widespread policy changes, women can take proactive steps to manage their menopause symptoms:

* Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and prioritize sleep.

* Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness.

* seek Medical Advice: Consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options. **Hormone