By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Mar 9, GNA – As the world observes International Women’s Day, a spotlight is being placed on women’s access to healthcare and the challenges they face due to age and gender discrimination.
Research has shown that women tend to live longer than men, with an average life expectancy that is five years higher.
However, longer life does not always mean a healthier life.
Many older women struggle to access healthcare services, facing multiple barriers that limit their ability to receive quality care.
Women are also more likely to take on caregiver roles, experience higher rates of disability, and suffer from functional decline.
Yet, studies indicate that they are less likely than men to receive the healthcare they need, particularly as they age. This raises concerns about health equity and systemic biases in medical care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasises that achieving health equity for women requires supporting them at every stage of life.
Addressing these inequalities means: Eliminating gender-based discrimination in healthcare settings, ensuring that older women receive equal access to essential medical services and promoting policies that support caregivers, many of whom are women.
To bridge the information gap, the WHO has introduced a unique chatbot for women, providing free and accessible health information in multiple languages.
The chatbot offers essential knowledge to help women make informed decisions about their health.
Some of the key topics covered include Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Endometriosis, Family planning and reproductive health, Heart health, Diabetes management, Cervical cancer awareness and screening, Breast cancer prevention and treatment
As International Women’s Day highlights the progress and struggles of women worldwide, the issue of healthcare accessibility remains a major challenge.
Governments, healthcare providers, and society must take concrete steps to eliminate the barriers preventing women especially older women from receiving the care they need and deserve.
GNA
MA/AD