Women in wealthier areas are twice as likely to receive HRT, research finds trends now
GPs in affluent areas write almost twice as many HRT prescriptions as those in poorer regions, a new report claims – laying bare the postcode lottery for menopause treatments.
Researchers found doctors in wealthy districts also spend twice as much on medications, appointments and complementary therapies for women aged 45 to 60.
As a stark example of the divide, 1,636 HRT items were prescribed per 1,000 women last year in well-off Winchester, compared with just 346 items per 1,000 women in deprived Sparkhill, Birmingham. The NHS spent £26,253 per 1,000 women in Winchester, but just £5,030 per 1,000 women in Sparkhill.
In wealthy Somerset West, 1,676 HRT items are prescribed and £26,221 is spent per 1,000 women aged 45-60, compared with 275 items and £4,144 per 1,000 women in deprived Barking and Dagenham, east London.
Researchers found doctors in wealthy districts also spend twice as much on medication (stock image)
More than 80 per cent of women will experience debilitating menopause symptoms for more than one year (stock image)
According to the study, women from ethnic minorities were the least likely to receive adequate treatment – though that may be due to cultural factors.
The report, which was commissioned by women's health company Theramex, recommends increased training for GPs on menopause, as well as community engagement to raise awareness of treatments and better access to prescriptions for women.
Some clinicians
