Menopausal symptoms in peri- and postmenopausal women: systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, incidence, comorbidities, and clinical outcomes

The study analyzed data from 239 research studies involving approximately 2.5 million women from 56 countries and regions to determine the global prevalence of menopausal symptoms. The most common symptoms were hot flashes (48%), night sweats (30%), insomnia (47%), irritability (46%), anxiety (39%), and depression (30%). Physical symptoms such as joint pain (50%), backache (47%), and tiredness (61%) were also frequently reported. Heat intolerance had the highest prevalence (76%), while urinary incontinence (24%) and poor appetite (8%) were less common. Africa showed the highest prevalence of symptoms compared to other continents. Hypertension and obesity were the most common comorbidities. The research highlighted global differences in the prevalence of menopausal symptoms and the need for further investigation, particularly in underrepresented populations.