Throughout history, women have been more susceptible to illnesses and diseases than men. Women are biologically and socially vulnerable to certain illnesses such as ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and cervical cancer.

Gender Bias in Medical Research

In the past, medical research focused more on men than women. Clinical trials often excluded women, and medical textbooks mostly portrayed male patients. This gender bias resulted in delayed diagnoses and overlooked symptoms for women’s health issues.

In recent years, the medical field is acknowledging this gender gap and has started to rectify this imbalance, but it still persists.

Menopause

One of the significant health issues for women is menopause. It is the phase in a woman’s life when she stops menstruating, and her body undergoes changes that predispose her to several health problems.

These include an increased risk of osteoporosis, heart diseases, and depression.

Reproductive Health

Reproductive health affects women more than men. Women face numerous reproductive health problems during their lifetime, such as menstrual disorders, infertility, pregnancy complications, and childbirth-related issues.

Many of these issues are life-threatening and can cause severe harm to women’s well-being, particularly in low-income countries.

Mental Health

Mental health is paramount for physical health, and women are at a higher risk of having mental health issues. Women are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues than men.

These conditions are often related to social and economic inequality, an unfair burden of care responsibilities, and violence or abuse.

Chronic Illnesses

Chronic illnesses are long-lasting and affect millions of people worldwide. Many of these conditions are prevalent among women, such as autoimmune illnesses like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Women are genetically and biologically susceptible to autoimmune conditions, making them more prone to developing these chronic diseases. Besides, women are also prone to chronic illnesses related to lifestyle factors, such as obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity.

Health Disparities in Race and Ethnicity

Women from marginalized groups face substantial health disparities. African American, Hispanic, and Native American women face higher risks of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

Social determinants like poverty, medication access, and inadequate health insurance contribute to these disparities.

Conclusion

The disproportionate impact of illness on women is a significant public health concern. There is a pressing need for research to address the gaps in women’s health and well-being.

Advancements in medical science and technology offer hope for better healthcare outcomes for women. To improve women’s health, policymakers must address the underlying social determinants of health that disproportionately affect marginalized groups of women. Women’s health is not only a feminist issue but also a public health concern.