Empowering Women's Health: A New Era in Care

For decades, women have been the unwavering strength behind childcare, caregiving, and managing the healthcare needs of others. While these roles persist, there is a gradual shift towards a more equitable distribution of responsibilities in some areas, though much progress is still needed.  

• Women with children under 13 spend, on average, an additional 81 minutes per day compared to men, balancing childcare with other responsibilities.  

• An estimated 66% of all caregivers are women.  

• While men do contribute, female caregivers often devote up to 50% more time to caregiving than their male counterparts.  

• It is estimated that approximately 20% of all women workers in the U.S. are also family caregivers.  
  

With so much focus on the health and well-being of others, women's own health often takes a back seat. A survey conducted by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions found that women are 35% more likely than men to delay or forgo medical care over the span of a year. Factors such as time constraints, transportation issues, cost, and past experiences contribute to this trend. Additionally, women's health needs are unique. It's only in recent decades that women have been included in National Institutes of Health (NIH) research, and important gender differences in the symptoms of heart disease have only recently been recognized. Women also face distinct health conditions, including those related to the female reproductive system, such as menopause, pregnancy, postpartum health, and gynecological cancers.  

Recognizing these unique health challenges, it's essential for women to engage in regular health screenings and discussions tailored to each stage of life. The Office on Women's Health provides a comprehensive guide outlining recommended screenings and health considerations for women at various ages. For instance, cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears) are advised starting at age 21 and continuing every three years. As women age, additional screenings like mammograms, cholesterol checks, and bone density tests become pertinent. Engaging in these preventive measures can lead to early detection and better health outcomes. 

Lara Loveman, Vice President of Pharma Solutions, shares: "As a woman, Mom, partner, daughter, and leader, I wear many hats and can deeply relate to the challenges and lack of awareness surrounding my own health. It's incredibly rewarding to work with brands that prioritize these needs and collaborate with professionals who share this vision daily."  

By addressing the unique needs of women's health and emphasizing the importance of regular, age-appropriate screenings, there is a growing momentum to create better care solutions. These solutions will pave the way for a more equitable healthcare future. 

Learn more: visit www.womenshealth.gov to learn more about health considerations at every age. 

Sources:

Women’s health was overlooked for decades. Not anymore 

Women Pharmacists Day: The Evolution of Women’s Role in US Pharmacy Practice 

Health Policy Issues in Women’s Health | KFF 

Women and Caregiving: Facts and Figures 

How do men and women use time differently? | USAFacts 

Why US women skip or delay health care | Deloitte Insights 

Gender Health Gap: Women’s Health Startups | Morgan Stanley 

Your Health Journey: Screenings and Discussions for Every Stage of Life