The Menopause Morass: Media, Marketing, Misinformation

There has been more media coverage of perimenopause and menopause lately; however, not all attention is good attention. In this blog post, health care journalist Gary Schwitzer critiques recent media messages around menopause. He integrates his perspective with that of researchers and experts, including OBOS co-founder Judy Norsigian and OBOS partner Nina Coslov.

Schwitzer notes a number of problems with how the media has discussed menopause. Claims that the work around menopause is new or has been revived ignores those who have been doing the work for decades. Media sources can also provide misinformation or information that may be confusing. It can be difficult to discuss topics that need nuance, such as hormone therapy, in the media. This is especially the case when doctors are deeply influenced by capitalism and Big Pharma. Doctors and influencers profit from selling their own products and services, including those related to hormone therapy or menopause supplements.

The media should depend more on independent sources rather than doctors who have a financial interest in promoting certain products. Additionally, rigorously evaluated data that addresses the benefits and harms of such products should be provided. We must remember that each experience of menopause is unique, and thus our symptoms and treatments may vary.

Everybody wants to know, ‘What should I do?’ And media often try to simplify topics to answer such questions - answers that should not be simplified.

SOURCE: Health News Review • AUTHOR: Gary Schwitzer • LAST UPDATED: December 4, 2024