Karnataka to launch Ruthu Taare health programme for women aged 35 and above

Karnataka is launching a three-month pilot of a new mid-life women's health and menopause programme named Ruthu Taare in Dakshina Kannada. Actor and former MP Ramya has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the initiative, which covers women aged 35 and above. Health Minister U.T. Khader stated that the programme aims to tackle health issues related to perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause that are often ignored as a normal part of aging. The initiative will provide screening, clinical assessment, counselling, treatment, referral services and a Mid-Life Health Card for women.

Implementation

According to an order from the Commissionerate of Health and Family Welfare Services, dedicated clinic sessions will take place every Wednesday at primary health centres, taluk hospitals and district hospitals. Medical colleges will run clinics on Saturdays depending on staff availability. ASHAs, community health officers, medical officers and nursing personnel will help carry out the programme. Screening for hypertension, diabetes, obesity and other cardiometabolic risks will be added to existing non-communicable disease services, along with breast and cervical cancer screening. The Mental Health Division will use a Green-Yellow-Red risk classification system, and the Nutrition Division will provide guidance on balanced diets, bone health and weight management.

Context

Public health programmes in India frequently use pilot phases in specific districts to test logistics and refine services before wider state-wide rollouts. Mid-life health care services specifically targeting women over 35 aim to bridge a long-standing gap in public health systems that often focus primarily on maternal and child health.