The menopause symptom profile of Māori and non-Māori women in New Zealand

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Lawton BA et al

December 20, 2008

Summary:

Data were analysed from 3616 women aged 49–70 years in a study that enrolled 27 primary care practices and from the multinational WISDOM trial of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in order to describe menopause symptoms in postmenopausal Māori and non-Māori New Zealand women, and explore relationships between symptoms, sociodemographic profile and postmenopausal HRT use. While Māori and non-Māori differed in demographic and clinical characteristics, few differences were observed in the frequency of menopause-related symptoms. Vasomotor symptoms were reported by 34.4% of women, with no statistically significant difference between Māori and non-Māori (p>0.05). Compared to non-Māori, Māori were less likely to have ever used HRT (24% vs 54%) and to be current HRT users (5% vs 30%; p<0.05).

Comment:

An important study reporting on ethnic inequalities for menopausal women in NZ. Often cited by clinicians as the main reason for treatment inequalities, the study has already adjusted for some ‘clinical factors’ and shown that this does not fully explain the disparities between Māori and non-Māori. Other factors to be considered include provider preference (which anecdotally appears to be an issue) and patient preference. Dr Beverley Lawton at the Wellington School of Medicine recommends the following website for women wanting more information about menopausal symptoms and management – www.menopause.org.au.

Reference: Climacteric. 2008;11(6):467-74

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.