Despite advancements in gender equality, significant disparities in healthcare persist, particularly for women. Addressing these inequities is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable treatment. Here are six medical conditions that exemplify the gender health gap.
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Recent research from the British Cardiovascular Societies reveals alarming trends in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among women. CVD is the leading cause of death for women, yet misconceptions persist that it primarily affects men. This has led to underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment.
Women often present different symptoms than men, and they are less likely to receive essential diagnostic procedures, such as coronary angiograms. For instance, women in the UK are about a third less likely to receive this crucial test following a heart attack. Additionally, women are 50% more likely than men to receive an incorrect diagnosis after a heart attack, highlighting deep-rooted inequalities in healthcare.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis, often called “the missed disease,” affects approximately 10% of women and girls of reproductive age worldwide. However, many cases go undiagnosed for years—often taking more than seven years in the U.S. to receive a proper diagnosis, particularly for women of color.
Documentary filmmaker Shannon Cohn’s personal story sheds light on this issue, as she experienced a 13-year gap of being dismissed by healthcare providers despite severe symptoms. Increasing awareness and research into endometriosis is crucial for timely and accurate diagnoses.
3. Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is diagnosed three times more often in boys than in girls, but many females remain undiagnosed or receive a diagnosis later in life. This delay can result in significant mental health issues during adulthood. Girls often mask their symptoms, adhering to social norms that can obscure their true experiences.
Clinical psychologist Karen Saporito emphasizes the need for better recognition of how autism presents differently in females, advocating for more tailored approaches to diagnosis and support.
4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is another condition that frequently goes undiagnosed in women. Recent data shows that the diagnosis rate among women aged 23 to 49 has nearly doubled in recent years, indicating a growing awareness of this issue.
Historically, ADHD research has focused on boys, which has led to an underappreciation of how symptoms manifest in females. The gender gap in ADHD diagnosis is narrowing, but more efforts are needed to ensure women receive appropriate evaluations and treatment.
5. Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune conditions, which include diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, disproportionately affect women, who make up about 80% of those diagnosed. On average, women wait five years for a diagnosis.
Research indicates that a molecule unique to women, Xist, may play a role in autoimmune responses. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to improved treatments and earlier detection strategies.
6. Antimicrobial Resistance
Emerging evidence from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that women are more vulnerable to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) than men. Factors contributing to this increased exposure include greater antibiotic usage and more frequent contact with pathogens, especially among healthcare workers.
The WHO emphasizes the importance of integrating sex and gender considerations into monitoring efforts for drug-resistant infections to better protect women’s health.
Conclusion
Addressing the gender health gap is essential for improving healthcare outcomes for women. By raising awareness of these six conditions and advocating for more inclusive research and equitable treatment, we can work towards a healthcare system that serves all individuals, regardless of gender.
Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/10/women-health-gap-healthcare-gender/
