Karnataka To Launch India's First Comprehensive Menopause Health Policy

The Karnataka government is set to introduce 'Ruthuthare', a pioneering awareness program designed to address the health needs of women experiencing menopause. This initiative, which will be integrated into a broader Women's Health Policy, marks the first time a state in India has dedicated a specific policy framework to this often-neglected area of healthcare.

Health Minister U.T. Khader highlighted that the program will focus on early identification and improved access to specialized care. A key component of the strategy involves training ASHA workers to conduct household surveys, ensuring that women in rural and urban areas receive preventive care and necessary medical guidance. This grassroots approach is intended to bridge the gap in awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding menopausal health.

By formalizing menopause as a public health priority, Karnataka aims to improve the quality of life for aging women. The policy is expected to serve as a model for other states, emphasizing the importance of specialized geriatric and women-centric health services. The government plans to roll out these services systematically, ensuring that diagnostic and support facilities are accessible through the existing public health infrastructure.