Menopause linked to biological aging and workforce impact

A research review led by the National University of Singapore has found that earlier menopause is linked to slightly faster biological aging. Analyzing 29 studies involving over 550,000 women, researchers used DNA methylation clocks to estimate biological age. The findings indicated that for every year menopause occurred earlier, there was an approximate increase of 0.08 years in age acceleration, or roughly one month on certain measures.

Separately, menopause is emerging as a significant factor in the global workforce. In Africa, an estimated 41 million menopausal women are currently employed, while in the United Kingdom, nearly 80 percent of women experiencing menopause are active in the workforce. Experts note that because menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, it affects women during highly productive career stages.

Medical professionals are calling for organizations to address menopause through proactive communication, education programs, and mental health support to combat stigma and help employees manage symptoms like anxiety and mood fluctuations.