The Heart Institute of the Caribbean will host a private screening of The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause at 6:30 pm on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Locale, in observance of World Menopause Day.

Jamaica is the first international location to host a screening ofThe (M) Factor, a powerful and groundbreaking film that sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges of menopause.

In addition to the screening, the event will also include an engaging panel discussion focused on the realities of perimenopause and menopause, and how they affect women’s health, careers, and overall well-being.

Panellists will include Dr Sara Lawrence Lewis, MBBS (OBGYN, Charis Women’s Wellness), Dr Raejean Porter, DPT (physiotherapist), and Dr Norrisa Haynes, MD (Assistant Professor of Cardiology, Yale School of Medicine). Dr Dainia Baugh, chair of the HIC Foundation, internist and menopause specialist at HIC, alongside Rose Tavares-Finson, certified health and fitness professional, will moderate the discussion.

“This screening and discussion are integral to our mission of promoting women’s health and well-being,” Dr Baugh explained. 

“Understanding menopause’s links to cardiovascular health is vital, especially in light of our conference theme,” she added.

In addition to the panel of experts, the event will also showcase real-world perspectives from women who are leaders in their respective fields: fitness, wellness, lifestyle and emotional support. These women will share their own experiences with navigating perimenopause and menopause in both the personal and professional spheres.

These esteemed guests include Karla Henry, menopause coach; Jodi Mair, fitness professional; Cecile Levee, wellness advocate; and Angelie Spencer, interior designer and wellness advocate.

Announcing Masters of Medicine Conference 2025

The event will also serve as the launch of the upcoming Masters of Medicine Conference slated for January 2025, under the theme ‘Her Heart Matters’. The theme reflects HIC’s commitment to elevating discussions on women’s health, particularly menopause.

“Menopause impacts countless women in Jamaica and across the Caribbean, yet it remains shrouded in stigma. This conversation is essential for raising awareness and fostering open dialogue,” Dr Baugh outlined.

Since 2012, the Masters of Medicine Conference has been a critical platform for healthcare professionals, attracting global experts and fostering local engagement with international thought leaders. The conference targets a diverse audience, including healthcare professionals, business leaders, policymakers, and social scientists, while emphasising the interconnected roles of public and private sectors in healthcare.