State Senator Adriane Johnson addresses the Illinois Senate.

SPRINGFIELD – To bring awareness to a condition that will be faced by more than half of all Illinoisans, State Senator Adriane Johnson championed the effort to declare Oct. 11-17, 2026 Menopause Awareness Week.

“Highlighting menopause is vital to guaranteeing that individuals receive empathy, support, medical care, and dignity they deserve during this major stage in life,” said Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “By breaking the stigma and championing education, we can improve health outcomes and empower people to navigate menopause with confidence.”

With a general lack of research, the resolution seeks to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals with perimenopause and menopause. Most women in the United States do not receive medical treatment for menopause. According to the AARP, less than a quarter of women experiencing menopause received treatment in 2021.

Menopause-related symptoms cause an estimated $1.8 billion in lost work time per year, and $26.6 billion annually with medical expenses according to Mayo Clinic.

Senate Joint Resolution 52 was adopted Friday.