British–Asian women's views on and attitudes towards menopause and hormone replacement therapy

Abstract

Objective To establish an understanding of the views and values of Asian women living in the UK but of Indian subcontinent origin, in relation to the menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT): hopefully this will allow the development of strategies for increasing HRT uptake and long-term adherence.

Method This was a postal, structured questionnaire survey, completed anonymously by British–Asian women who expressed their opinions and knowledge about the menopause and HRT, including their views on service provision.

Results Some 70% of women were in the age range 40–59 years; 74.5% had some education. In all 82% declared that they understood the menopause, and 77% thought that the menopause was a natural phenomenon. Over 75% were interested in seeking a medical opinion for management of the menopause. Of the women surveyed, 33% (n = 88) felt happy about and 46% (n = 123) felt frightened by the menopause.

Conclusions The results suggest an overwhelming demand for information and the need for special clinics run by female doctors who can communicate in the women's own language. Fears and concerns are similar to those of the Caucasian population.

Key Words:

• HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
• BRITISH–ASIAN WOMEN OF INDIAN SUBCONTINENT ORIGIN
• BENEFITS AND RISKS
• QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY
• KNOWLEDGE AND INFORMATION