Only 10 of the 33 countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean have national guidelines for menopause care, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has found, leaving most women in the region without structured, evidence-based support through midlife.

PAHO presented the findings during a regional webinar on 10 November 2026 and called on governments to strengthen menopause care within health services. The organisation urged countries to move beyond treating symptoms alone and to include prevention of chronic disease, support for mental and sexual health, and the promotion of healthy ageing.

A policy gap across most of the region

The regional analysis, carried out between May and July 2026, examined the availability and content of menopause care guidance across 33 countries and territories. Just 10 — 30.3% — had at least one current national guideline that met the study’s criteria. In the other 23, no qualifying national guideline was identified. Researchers reviewed 15 national clinical documents in depth and found wide differences in recommendations on diagnosis, treatment, prevention and the organisation of services.

PAHO said the gap matters because menopause affects every woman who reaches midlife, yet care is often fragmented or absent from health services. The organisation is urging health ministries to adopt clear national guidance so that women can get consistent advice and treatment, including support for the long-term health risks that rise after menopause, such as heart disease and osteoporosis, Caribbean Media Corporation reported.