Abbott, a global healthcare company, is promoting menopause through its campaign, The Next Chapter. The company introduced a conversation starter, ‘Real, Made up, or Mine?’ at an event in Mumbai. Lara Dutta, a former Miss Universe, actress, and entrepreneur, participated in the discussion, advocating for an open dialogue and reframement of the menopause narrative.
A panel discussion led by Lara Dutta, Dr. Nozer Sheriar Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at P.D. Hinduja & Breach Candy Hospitals and Former Secretary General of The Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI), Dr. Suchitra Pandit, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Surya Group of Hospitals, Mumbai and former President of The Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI), and Dr. Rohita Shetty, Head, Medical Affairs at Abbott India, discussed women’s menopausal experiences, awareness levels, and the importance of social support. The session was moderated by Shaili Chopra, Founder of She The People, and featured panelists from various medical institutions. Lara Dutta, raised in a strong family, believes open conversations about menopause are crucial for finding solutions.
Abbott’s The Next Chapter, a collection of stories from India, China, Brazil, and Mexico, aims to inspire women undergoing menopause to speak up, discuss their experiences, and seek support from family and friends, building on the 2022 launch. Dr. Rohita Shetty, head of Medical Affairs at Abbott, emphasizes the significance of understanding and supporting women during menopause, stating that driving conversations and sharing reliable information can help them live more fully during this life stage. She said “We believe that driving conversations and sharing trusted information on menopause is an important step for women to get the support they may need to live more fully in this life stage.”
The ‘Real, Made up, or Mine?’ event uses scenario cards inspired by The Next Chapter compilation to spark conversations about menopause and general well-being. The cards are open-ended questions, allowing panelists and audience members to engage in authentic exchanges about menopause’s impact on various aspects of life. The event aims to spark meaningful conversations about menopause. Indian women typically experience menopause around 46 years old, five years earlier than Western women. This period impacts their family, social life, work, and daily activities. A survey by Abbott and Ipsos found that over 80% of women believe menopause affects their personal well-being. It may also affect mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, irritability, poor concentration, sleep loss, and memory issues. To increase awareness, it is crucial to encourage family, friends, and coworkers to share their experiences. 91% of husbands believe more women need to talk about their experiences to increase awareness.
