Menopause is often discussed as a universal biological milestone, yet growing evidence suggests that the menopause transition is far from uniform. Symptom prevalence, severity, age of onset, cardiometabolic risk, bone health and treatment access can vary significantly across racialized populations. Cultural believes and historical inequities in healthcare further shape how menopause is experienced, reported and managed. 

In this engaging and clinically focused sessions, we will explore the evolving evidence on racial and cultural differences in menopause including variations in vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, metabolic risk and treatment patterns. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how biology, social determinants of health and cultural contexts intersect during the menopause transition. 

This session will highlight practical considerations for more culturally informed menopausal care. Attendees will leave with insights to better recognize diverse menopause experiences, address disparities in care and apply a more nuanced, patient-centred approach in clinical practice. 

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Describe key differences in the prevalence, timing and severity of menopausal symptoms among diverse racial and ethnic populations. (CanMEDS-FM: Medical Expert 1.2; Health Advocate 5.1)
• Recognize how social determinants of health, cultural perspectives, and structural inequities influence the menopause experience and access to care. (CanMEDS-FM: Health Advocate 5.1, 5.2; Professional 7.1)
• Apply culturally informed, patient-centred strategies to improve menopause assessment, counselling and management in diverse populations. (CanMEDS-FM: Communicator 2.1, 2.3; Health Advocate 5.2; Medical Expert 1.6)