Menopause and Hormone Therapy: Current Perspectives and Controversies | For Women

Introduction:  The International Menopause Society is proud to present a special episode of the IMS Interview Series. Join Dr. Marla Shapiro as she interviews IMS President, and lead author of the IMS White Paper 2024, Professor Nick Panay, to discuss Menopause and Hormone Therapy: Current Perspectives and Controversies.    Episode Summary:  In this special episode, they explore the newly released International Menopause Society White Paper, Menopause and MHT in 2024: Addressing the Key Controversies, aiming to shed light on the current debates surrounding hormone therapy. By focusing on the core questions of "Who, What, When, Why, and Where," they provide clarity on the key issues. The episode delves into who should consider Menopause Hormone Therapy, its benefits, and potential risks. Dr. Shapiro and Professor Panay discuss the importance of personalized treatment plans, addressing common symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, while highlighting the need to weigh the benefits against individual health risks. They also explore the role of lifestyle changes and non-hormonal options in optimizing health and well-being during menopause, alongside hormone therapy. Additionally, they discuss global challenges in accessing menopause treatments and emphasize the importance of evidence-based care. As we celebrate World Menopause Day, this insightful conversation underscores the value of informed decision-making and empowers women with knowledge rooted in science and evidence.  

YouTube Link: The interview is also available on video: https://youtu.be/zJKoEXTWO78 

Relevant Links & Resources: 

Settings:

• Link to World Menopause Day resources 

• Menopause Info

Host Bio: 

Marla Shapiro C.M.‎, MDCM, CCFP, MHSC, FRCPC, FCFP, NCMP 

Marla Shapiro is a professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto. 

Dr. Shapiro completed medical school at McGill University and trained at the University of Toronto for her Masters of Health Science. She concluded her specialty training in Community Medicine, receiving her Fellowship in Preventive Medicine and Public Health from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. She also holds a Fellowship in Family Medicine and is currently a Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto. 

Dr. Shapiro is seen on CTV NewsChannel and is the medical expert on CTV’s National News and NewsChannel. She is the author of the bestselling book, Life in the Balance: My Journey with Breast Cancer. 

Dr. Shapiro is a member of several advisory boards, including the Terry Fox Research Institute. She sat on the Board of Trustees for NAMS for 9 years. She was the President of the North American Menopause Society in 2017 and Scientific Chair of the NAMS Annual General meeting in 2019. She continues to produce and direct both videos in women’s health for health practitioners and the general public for NAMS. The videos can be seen on YouTube and www.menopause.org. She is on the editorial board of both Menopause and Climacteric. 

She received an Award of Excellence from the College of Family Physicians of Canada and was awarded the Excellence in Creative Professional Activity by the University of Toronto. Dr. Shapiro was also chosen in the top 10 of the 50 most powerful doctors in Canada by the Medical Post. 

In 2015 Dr. Shapiro was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions as a family physician and trusted source of health information. One of this country’s highest civilian honours, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nation. 

Guest Bio:  

Professor Nick Panay BSc MBBS FRCOG MFSRH Consultant Gynecologist, Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Professor of Practice, Imperial College London, Guest Professor, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University.

Summary CV As director of the Menopause & PMS Centre at Queen Charlotte’s Hospital & Imperial College London, Nick leads a busy clinical and research team which publishes widely, presents at scientific meetings and trains health professionals at all levels. He and his team of research fellows and nurses run an active research programme consisting of translational, clinical and pharmaceutically sponsored research in menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency, premenstrual syndrome, androgens and contraception.

Nick has authored more than 200 peer reviewed publications with more than 10000 citations to date