Women’s Health

Women’s health studies are research initiatives focusing on health across the lifespan for women, including both sex differences and gender-specific factors Major examples include the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) and the Women’s Health Study (WHS), which have investigated disease prevention, including cardiovascular disease and cancer, and have also looked into other health aspects like cognitive function, vision, and nutrition. While the field has expanded beyond reproductive health, underrepresentation of women in clinical trials remains a concern.

Key women’s health studies

• Women’s Health Initiative (WHI): A long-term national study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) focusing on strategies for preventing heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The study, which began in 1991, has involved a large observational study and three randomized clinical trials, contributing significant findings on hormone therapy and women’s health.
• Women’s Health Study (WHS): A randomized trial that followed thousands of female health professionals to evaluate the benefits of low-dose aspirin and vitamin E for preventing cardiovascular disease and cancer. The study has also examined their roles in preventing migraines, vision problems, and cognitive decline.

Areas of study

• Cardiovascular disease: Research investigates prevention strategies and risk factors specific to women.
• Cancer:  Studies focus on prevention, screening (like mammography), and treatment for female-specific cancers.
• Reproductive health: Includes research on birth control, STIs, and conditions like endometriosis.
• Chronic diseases: Studies cover osteoporosis and other chronic conditions affecting women.
• Mental health:  Affects how women think, feel, and act, impacting their overall well-being.

Challenges and considerations

• Clinical trial representation: Women remain underrepresented in clinical trials for diseases that disproportionately affect them.
• Sex and gender differences: Women’s health research considers how biological sex and social gender influence health outcomes.
• Diagnostic bias: Some studies indicate that women’s health complaints may be dismissed or misdiagnosed as psychological rather than physical.