Despite efforts to include women in clinical trials, the male-centric model of medicine continues to prevail, leading to detrimental effects on women’s health. Research increasingly emphasizes the physiological differences between men and women beyond reproductive organs, highlighting the need for gender-specific approaches in healthcare. In India, where generic drug production and consumption are significant, the gender disparity in clinical trials has profound implications. Studies reveal that women’s bodies respond differently to generic drugs, resulting in either overdosing or inadequate treatment. Diagnosis and testing also pose challenges for women, particularly in mental health. Depression rates and anxiety prevalence are higher among women globally, impacting their educational attainment and perpetuating the cycle of underrepresentation. Furthermore, even conditions like cardiac issues, acknowledged to have a higher prevalence in women, are often misdiagnosed and mistreated due to the stereotype of the “hysterical woman.”
The exclusion of women from clinical trials and research on critical illnesses such as cancer and heart disease hampers understanding of sex-specific symptoms and treatment responses. Consequently, research funding for sex-specific illnesses remains disproportionately low compared to their burden. Additionally, the neglect of women’s reproductive health contributes to preventable mortality rates. Policy interventions are necessary to promote gender-specific research in medicine and ensure equitable healthcare for women. With India’s G-20 presidency, there is an opportunity to address this issue and align it with the Sustainable Development Goals on women’s health, recognizing the importance of gender-responsive healthcare.
The prevailing male-centric approach in medicine hampers women’s health, necessitating policy interventions to address the gender bias. From clinical trials to generic drugs, mental health, and cardiac issues, women face disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and research funding.
An equitable healthcare system requires recognizing women as an individual category and dedicating sufficient resources to understand and provide appropriate care. India, with its progressive policies on women’s health, should take the lead in promoting sex-specific research and implementing outcomes. As India holds the G-20 presidency, it presents an ideal opportunity to bring attention to this crucial issue and align it with global goals for women’s health.
