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Biography

Dalya is passionate about improving access to exercise and empowering females with knowledge about how and why physical activity is important for long-term health and quality of life. Drawing on her experience as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist and her current PhD research, she is investigating how exercise physiology can be better integrated into healthcare for females throughout the menopausal transition.

Research title

Physical Activity in the Menopausal Transition: An Implementation Trial of a Remote Exercise Management Plan and Insights from General Practitioners

Research abstract

Recent changes to the Australian healthcare system have increased funding and introduced new consultation plans to support general practitioners (GPs) in managing care for females during the menopausal transition. Physical activity is well established as an effective strategy for preventing chronic conditions, alleviating some menopausal symptoms, and enhancing quality of life. Despite this, many women lack adequate knowledge and access to appropriate exercise support, making GP referral a logical avenue to promote engagement. This thesis will examine GPs’ understanding and clinical experiences of physical activity in this population, including perceived benefits, referral practices, and perspectives on incorporating menopause into the shared care plan framework. Insights from this work then inform an implementation trial evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of a 5-session remote exercise management plan for women in the menopausal transition. Collectively, these findings have the potential to inform future policy and practice, strengthening the quality of care and support available to females during this life stage.

Supervisors

Dr Mandy Hagstrom, Dr Kemi Wright and Dr Jade O'brien-Smith