Prevalence of hot flushes and night sweats around the world: a systematic review Original paper

What was studied?

This systematic review examines the global prevalence of hot flashes and night sweats, two of the most common vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. The authors aimed to understand how these symptoms vary across different cultures, geographic regions, and menopausal stages. A total of 66 studies were included, with a focus on identifying prevalence patterns for hot flashes and night sweats in women from various continents, including North America, Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, Latin America, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The studies also explored factors influencing symptom variation, such as lifestyle, diet, cultural attitudes, and climate.

Who was studied?

The studies included in the review involved women between the ages of 40 and 65 years, across different stages of menopause, including perimenopause, postmenopause, and those who underwent surgical menopause. The women were from diverse ethnic backgrounds, representing various global regions, including Caucasian, African-American, Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations. Data was derived from large-scale studies, such as the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN), along with smaller cohort studies, offering insights into the cultural and regional differences in symptom prevalence and severity.

Most important findings

The review found that the prevalence of hot flashes and night sweats varied significantly across regions and ethnic groups. In North America, particularly among African-American women, the prevalence was notably high, with 46% reporting symptoms, while in Japan, it was much lower at around 18%. The study also highlighted how factors like ethnicity, culture, diet, and even climate influenced symptom reporting. For instance, women in colder climates or those with diets rich in soy were found to experience fewer symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, were associated with higher rates of vasomotor symptoms. This variability emphasizes the need for region-specific healthcare strategies to manage menopause-related symptoms effectively.

Key implications

This review underscores the importance of considering cultural and regional factors when addressing menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes and night sweats. It suggests that healthcare providers should not only consider the global prevalence of these symptoms but also the unique cultural attitudes toward menopause that may influence symptom reporting and treatment-seeking behavior. Tailored interventions, including diet modifications and lifestyle adjustments, could potentially alleviate symptoms based on regional characteristics. Moreover, recognizing the diverse experiences of menopause globally can lead to better, more personalized care for women during the menopausal transition.