Belgium's Health Ministers, led by outgoing Federal Minister Frank Vandenbroucke (Vooruit), have set up a task force to initiate a coordinated policy on menopause.
In recent years, there has been better societal awareness of menopause. However, there is still a long way to go, the seven ministers noted in a joint statement on Wednesday.
During menopause, women experience various physical and psychological symptoms. They often feel misunderstood or lack support in their private or professional environments. Finding appropriate care and treatments can also be challenging.
Menopause remains a poorly understood phenomenon with a significant impact on the quality of life of those affected, the ministers stated during Wednesday's Inter-ministerial Conference (CIM) on Public Health. "It is crucial that authorities actively offer concrete, accessible and suitable solutions for women going through menopause."
The creation of the inter-federal task force will allow an inventory of existing initiatives in Belgium. This inventory will help identify the tools currently available and highlight areas for improvement.
Recommendations will then be formulated to develop a structured action plan. "The aim is to develop a coordinated, effective and inclusive policy to improve the quality of life for women who have reached menopause."
