Misinformation on social media harms menopausal women's health

A health expert has warned that social media myths pose a significant risk to women going through menopause. Cathy Casey, who runs a menopause service at Nenagh Hospital in Tipperary, highlighted the dangers of misinformation during a recent webinar. Dr. Casey noted that many women are misinformed about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some myths suggest that HRT significantly increases cancer risks. She clarified that the real risk of breast cancer from HRT is minimal compared to other factors, such as a high body mass index (BMI) or excessive alcohol consumption. In addition to cancer, Dr. Casey emphasized that heart disease is a major concern for women during menopause. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, far surpassing cancer statistics. She encouraged women to focus on heart health, as cardiovascular issues often go unnoticed. Dr. Brian Kennedy, a GP at the same clinic, pointed out that women sometimes struggle to receive proper care. He explained that menopause symptoms may not show in blood tests, which can lead to misunderstandings with healthcare providers. Not all women experience severe menopause symptoms. Dr. Kennedy indicated that while one in five women may cope well, another fifth may suffer significantly. This highlights the need for better awareness and support for women during this transition.