Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Aug 4: The state government is introducing a new scheme titled 'Ruthutare' aimed at women's health and well-being, announced health minister U T Khader. Noting the mental stress and physical challenges women face, a special committee headed by gynecologist Jyotsna has been formed to address issues related to menopause. Actress Ramya will serve as the brand ambassador for this initiative.
Under the scheme, ASHA workers will conduct door-to-door visits to collect relevant data from women and educate them on the necessary measures to take during the pre-menopause and post-menopause stages, the minister stated.
The initiative follows actress Ramya's insistence on taking appropriate measures to address the menopause-related challenges plaguing women. Consequently, a crucial dialogue was held at Arogya Soudha in Bengaluru involving health minister U T Khader, actress Ramya, and other medical experts. The minister revealed that the government arrived at this decision after considering the suggestions and advice of all participants.
Detailing the medical aspects, gynaecologist Jyotsna explained the necessity of understanding when and how women experience menopause. She categorised it into normal and surgical menopause. Pointing out the increased risk of heart and bone-related diseases during this phase, she stressed that individuals who have undergone surgical menopause need to exercise extra caution. Meanwhile, complications arising during normal menopause can often be managed through proper dietary modifications, she added.
Sharing her thoughts on the government's decision, actress Ramya highlighted that women in India experience menopause relatively earlier compared to other nations. She pointed out that a significant number of urban women suffer from menopause-related issues, yet there is a lack of awareness even in cities regarding the symptoms and available treatments. The awareness is even lower among rural populations. Ramya noted that she had initially approached the government requesting the inclusion of this topic in the 'Gruharogya' manual, and expressed her happiness at being appointed as the brand ambassador for the newly announced scheme.