In recent years, policies aimed at promoting women’s health across the life course have advanced. However, societal awareness and understanding of menopausal health issues remain insufficient, posing significant challenges for working women in Japan.

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s February 2024 report, “Estimation of Economic Loss Due to Women’s Health Issues and the Necessity of Health Management,” revealed that menopausal symptoms account for over 50% of the estimated ¥3.4 trillion economic loss resulting from women’s health issues, totaling approximately ¥1.9 trillion. This highlights the severe impact of unaddressed menopausal symptoms on working women. Additionally, the June 2023 “Women’s Comprehensive Policy” emphasized increasing the ratio of female executives in Prime Market listed companies to over 30%, underscoring the urgency of addressing menopausal health issues in workplaces and society.

In 2023, Health and Global Policy Institute (HGPI) launched the “Promotion of Menopausal Women’s Health as a Social Issue to be Considered by Industry, Government, Academia and the Private Sector” project, conducting four main activities: qualitative surveys of affected women, surveys of domestic and international companies, advisory board meetings, and an international symposium. Based on activity findings, HGPI formulated policy recommendations to assist policymakers and stakeholders in advancing menopausal health measures.

*The report will be available in English in due course.