According to Politiken, researchers from the University of Copenhagen conducted a nationwide survey examining women’s health and well-being during menopause.
The project involved 153,800 women aged 45 to 59, and the results were striking.
97 percent of participants reported experiencing menopause-related symptoms. 83 percent said their symptoms were moderate to severe.
"Menopause is not a disease, but our study clearly highlights that it represents a significant health challenge for women in Denmark, and it’s something we need to take seriously," said Maria Hybholt, associate professor at the Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, in a press release
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Common symptoms and a need for awareness
The most frequent and severe symptoms reported were:
- Sleep disturbances (54 percent)
- Hot flashes (43 percent)
- Joint and muscle pain (39 percent)
- Physical and mental exhaustion (39 percent)
According to the researchers, menopause often begins earlier than expected, sometimes years before a woman’s final menstrual period, which on average occurs around age 52.
While the study was conducted in Denmark, its implications may extend well beyond national borders.
Experts call for global attention
Anette Tønnes Pedersen, a senior physician at Rigshospitalet and a long-time menopause researcher, described the results "very valuable data".
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Although she did not take part in the study, she noted that only 27 percent of women responded to the survey, a factor that could influence representativeness.
"The study shows that these symptoms are very common among women in this age group. If this reflects reality, the numbers are striking. They should prompt further research", she said to Politiken.
Sources: Videnskab DK, and Politiken.
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