"Bami Adenipekun "When the menopause enlightenment happened, non-white women were still not part of the conversation," said Bami Adenipekun. The 49-year old equity consultant said she considers her brain now to be "more fantastic than it's ever been" and celebrates her "most powerful season". But she said it took her a long time to realise symptoms like memory issues were due to the menopause, following cancer treatment in her mid-30s."
"It is of particular concern to her given the prevalence of diabetes among south Asian communities, as a lack of oestrogen can cause insulin resistance, meaning those going through perimenopause increase their risk of developing diabetes. "That's why I would say to women to get prepared because our bodies are different, and because of our ethnicity, our risks are also different," she said."
"The menopause describes the end of a woman's reproductive years, and normally happens around the age of 51. The lead-up to this happening is known as the peri-menopause. It starts, on average, at 46. This is when many women notice their periods becoming unpredictable - heavier, lighter, longer or shorter - and experience feelings or physical problems they haven't had before."
Women from ethnic minority backgrounds often enter perimenopause earlier and experience longer-lasting symptoms, with body aches and fatigue more common than hot flushes or night sweats. Non-white women have historically been excluded from mainstream menopause conversations and awareness. Some women delay recognizing symptoms, especially after other medical events like cancer treatment, and are less likely to seek help. Lower oestrogen levels during perimenopause can increase insulin resistance, raising diabetes risk, particularly for south Asian communities with higher diabetes prevalence. Community-targeted education events aim to spread reliable information and encourage preparation and help-seeking.
Read at www.bbc.com
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