Emergency move to hit hard
Plans to downgrade or merge some A&E departments in England could hit 23 million people, doctors have warned.
The NHS money-saving proposals in 44 trusts would affect 40 per cent of the population despite a lack of evidence that the changes will work, according to the British Medical Assocation. Newson. “I am constantly astonished at how little women know about the menopause and how many don’t get adequate help and advice for their symptoms.”
For more advice about all issues related to the menopause, women can consult menopauseandme. co. uk, an online resource designed to help women make more informed choices when it comes t o managing t heir symptoms.
Dr Newson is a wholehearted supporter of all such efforts: “My message to women is that they don’t ‘just have to get on with it’.
“There’s plenty they can do to tackle symptoms and ensure they have a good menopause and enjoy this period of their life to the full.” One area where women are still confused is hormone replacement therapy or HRT. “Despite scare stories in the past, it’s important for women to realise that the newer forms of HRT are actually very low risk,” says Dr Louise Newson. Combined oral oestrogen and progesterone, the older type of HRT, was linked to an increased risk of stroke, but the newer gel and patches doctors typically prescribe don’t pose this risk. When it comes to breast cancer, there is a slight increased risk with taking combined HRT. For every 1000 women over 50 taking HRT for five years, two more will develop breast.
It’s thought HRT doesn’t cause cancer but may encourage existing cancer cells to grow in some women.
“But this is still lower than the associated breast cancer risk of drinking two glasses of wine a night or being overweight,” points out Dr Newson.
Menopause & Me provides tailored information about all stages of the menopause and what to expect.
The free resource offers the tools and support to help women make informed choices when it comes to managing their symptoms. Visit menopauseandme.co.uk