What is the Origin of Cost of Untreated Menopause?

This is a health economics term, combining the clinical state of 'Menopause' (from Greek menos (month) and pausis (cessation)) with the financial analysis of 'Untreated Cost.' The concept gains significance from longitudinal studies demonstrating the protective effects of estrogen on multiple organ systems. The economic analysis provides a compelling argument for proactive hormonal intervention.

What is the Mechanism of Cost of Untreated Menopause?

The financial burden is mechanistically driven by the systemic effects of sustained estrogen and progesterone deprivation on target tissues throughout the body. Estrogen deficiency accelerates bone mineral density loss, increases visceral adiposity, and negatively impacts vascular endothelial function, thereby escalating the risk of high-morbidity conditions. These progressive physiological declines necessitate chronic, expensive medical management and lead to early functional impairment.

Cost of Untreated Menopause ∞ Area

Cost of Untreated Menopause

Meaning

The aggregate economic and societal expenditure incurred due to the long-term, unmitigated health consequences arising from estrogen deficiency and associated hormonal changes following the cessation of ovarian function. This cost includes direct medical expenses for treating sequelae such as osteoporosis-related fractures, cardiovascular events, and cognitive decline. Substantial indirect costs stem from lost work productivity and reduced quality of life over decades.