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Health

Gender inequalities and health disparities: An urgent battle

Friday 25 October 2024 - 13:40 Journalists: Dakir Madiha

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Despite significant advances in women's rights, gender inequality remains a pressing global issue. Statistics reveal an alarming reality: every day, 800 women lose their lives due to pregnancy-related complications, while 270 million lack access to modern contraceptive methods. This situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated action to bridge the health disparities that persist between genders.

An alarming state of affairs

Recent reports highlight that, despite efforts to improve women's health, it will take approximately 131 more years to achieve true gender equality worldwide. This slow progress is particularly concerning given that women spend 25% of their lives in poorer health than men. These figures reveal not only a gap in access to healthcare but also a lack of health policies tailored to women's specific needs.

The lack of access to appropriate medical care and information about reproductive health contributes significantly to these inequalities. Maternal mortality remains a major issue in many countries, especially in regions where healthcare infrastructure is insufficient. Pregnancy-related complications should not be a cause of death, particularly in a world where medicine has made substantial progress.

The consequences of health disparities

The consequences of these inequalities extend beyond mere statistics; they also affect women's quality of life. Untreated health issues can lead to permanent disabilities, impacting women's ability to work and support their families. Furthermore, these inequalities have repercussions on the economic and social development of countries, as they limit women's potential as active contributors to society.

The absence of access to appropriate reproductive health services and sexual education exacerbates these issues. Approximately 270 million women lack access to modern contraceptive methods, resulting in unintended pregnancies and, in some cases, dangerous abortions. These situations jeopardize women's lives and health while exacerbating existing inequalities.

The need for inclusive health policies

To address these injustices, it is imperative that governments and international organizations adopt health policies that consider the specific needs of women. This includes improving access to prenatal and postnatal care, as well as implementing educational programs on reproductive health.

Initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about reproductive rights and the importance of good maternal health are also crucial. By informing women of their rights and providing them with the necessary resources to make informed decisions regarding their health, we can begin to reduce these disparities.

Towards an equitable future in health

Gender inequality and the resulting health disparities are major challenges requiring urgent attention. As we move towards a future where equality should be the norm, it is essential to act now to ensure that every woman has access to the care she needs to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. The fight for equality cannot be won without particular attention to the specifics of women's health. It is time to unite our efforts to build a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive fully.