A new study titled 'The Invisible Strength of the Economy: Women in Menopause and the Future of Work in Brazil,' conducted by the Instituto Esfera de Estudos e Inovação, reveals the significant, yet largely invisible, economic ramifications of insufficient responses for women in climacteric stages. It points out that around 29 million women in Brazil are experiencing climacteric or post-menopausal phases, with 63% of them being economically active and 33% identified as primary income providers. This underscores the demographic and economic importance of women in this stage of life, yet their health challenges remain inadequately addressed.

The study also notes that about 87.9% of these women experience prevalent symptoms related to menopause, suggesting a pressing need for integrated health strategies. Experts argue that menopause is often treated as a private matter in Brazil, rather than a public health issue with significant economic implications. Camila Funaro Camargo Dantas, CEO of the Instituto Esfera, emphasizes that failing to recognize and address the needs of these women could result in a loss of qualified and experienced human capital, thus impacting the workforce and economy at large.

The implications of this study are far-reaching, suggesting that a collaborative approach involving the SUS (Unified Health System) and private companies could provide better support for menopausal women, ultimately benefiting both health outcomes and economic productivity. By incorporating climacteric health into public policy, Brazil could enhance the quality of life for millions, while concurrently fostering a more robust economic environment.