According to reports, Karnataka is preparing to launch a first-of-its-kind Women’s Health Policy with menopause as one of its key focus areas. The initiative aims to improve awareness, early identification, and access to care while encouraging families and workplaces to better support women during midlife.
Menopause has long remained one of the least discussed stages in a woman’s life, despite affecting millions across India. Many women silently experience symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes, anxiety, and joint pain without recognising that these changes are linked to menopause. Lack of awareness, limited conversations within families, and inadequate support from healthcare systems often leave women struggling alone.
Now, according to reports, Karnataka is planning to change that. The state government has announced plans to introduce what could become India’s first dedicated Women’s Health Policy, with menopause emerging as one of its major focus areas. The initiative aims to improve awareness, encourage early identification of symptoms, and make it easier for women to access the care and support they need during this important stage of life.
According to reports, Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader said the state aims to develop a comprehensive policy focused exclusively on women’s health. The proposed policy will include a separate monitoring mechanism and an advisory committee comprising experts from the medical and social sectors.
MENOPAUSE TO BE A KEY FOCUS OF THE POLICY
According to reports, the state government will launch an awareness programme called Ruthuthare as the first step towards the larger Women’s Health Policy.
According to Dr Kumar, the greatest health benefits were seen in women who combined:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise every week
- Two or more hours of strength training weekly
- Less sedentary time
Summing it up, he wrote, “Movement is a team sport; not cardio or weights, but cardio + strength + less sitting.”