It’s Not in Their Head: Understanding the Disability Gap in Women’s Health

Aug 20, 2024 | Health and Well-Being Collection, Siloless Newsletter

  1. Siloless Newsletter
  2. It's Not in Their Head: Understanding the Disability Gap in Women's Health

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Siloless: WHI 360° | August 20, 2024

It's Not in Their Head: Understanding the Disability Gap in Women's Health

Women's health is a complex landscape where mortality rates are lower compared to men, but the burden of disability and unhealthy years is significantly higher. The gender gap in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) is striking, particularly for conditions such as low back pain, depressive disorders, and headache disorders, which disproportionately affect women globally.

What is concerning is that many women face dismissal and disbelief from healthcare providers, as highlighted by the 2022 KFF Women’s Health Survey. A significant percentage report feeling unheard, with instances of providers not believing them, making assumptions, and even suggesting that the patient is at fault for their health issues.

Moreover, disparities in medical research often exclude or marginalize women, hindering progress in understanding and addressing women's health conditions. Research in women’s health tends to focus on diseases with high mortality, neglecting chronic conditions.

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