Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been used to manage menopausal signs and symptoms of women living in developed nations. While the existing studies on menopausal issues and HRT (for example, Barrett-Conner, 1998; McNagny, 1999; Walsh et al., 1999) and a panel (APHA, 128th Conference) primarily address women in the developed countries, less known are the status of these issues in developing nations in general and the Muslim communities in particular. In order to assess knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of women about menopause and HRT in Iran, a survey questionnaire was administered to 300 Iranian women (age 36-60) from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences’ Gynecological Clinic in Shiraz. The survey showed that over 90% of the participants correctly understood the meaning of menopause. About 89% could correctly define the age range for menopause. Sixty-one percent answered that menopause decreased their daily activities. Responses on the relationship between menopause and cardiac arrest, sexual activity, mental health, and menopause and osteoporosis varied. An extremely low use of HRT (7%) was a significant finding of this survey that requires further culturally sensitive and empirical study to determine factors contributing to this behavior. Participants will learn about HRT practices in Iran; how local cultures influence the outcome of women’s menopausal experiences, and the roles medicalization play. Also Numerous culturally appropriate and prioritized recommendations, including educational to alter behaviors, will be offered, discussed, and shared with the participants at APHA's forthcoming conference in Atlanta.
Learning Objectives: 1)Participants will learn about menopuase/HRT practices among some Iranian women; 2)how local cultures influence the outcome of women’s menopausal experiences; 3)the roles education may play in women's attitudes toward menopausal issues and use of HRT
Keywords: Education, Menopause
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.