Prof.(Dr) Raminder Kalra
International Women’s Day 2024 carries the powerful theme of “Inspire Inclusion,” emphasising the overarching call to action to “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” This theme underscores the significance of creating an inclusive society and empowering women. Amidst the celebrations, it is crucial to direct our attention to an often-neglected aspect—women’s health. As we delve into the importance of health for women, we unveil the challenges they face and the imperative for healthcare professionals to take the lead in fostering awareness and change.
The Health Imperative:
The famous Arabian proverb “He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything” resonates profoundly on International Women’s Day. Health is a fundamental aspect that transcends age, gender, and socioeconomic standards. Regrettably, despite its paramount importance, the health of women often takes a backseat in priorities.
Women and Health Disparities:
Studies consistently reveal that women encounter more health issues than men. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that in regions grappling with economic, societal, and cultural inequalities, women are more susceptible to significant health challenges. These issues not only impact their quality of life but also perpetuate a cycle of poverty and disease for women and their families.
The Role of Nurses:
Nurses, as frontline healthcare professionals, play a pivotal role in improving women’s health. By providing education, healthcare services, and raising awareness of key issues, they can contribute significantly to breaking the cycle of health disparities. It is essential for healthcare professionals to not only address existing health issues but also identify and address the root causes in the local healthcare practices.
Focus Areas in Women’s Health:
Maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality, reproductive health issues, sexually transmitted diseases, gender discrimination, lack of education, violence toward women, reproductive cancers, and restricted access to healthcare are among the common issues ailing women’s health. The prevention of reproductive cancers, particularly cervical cancer, emerges as a critical focus area due to its preventable nature.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant threat to women’s health, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes contribute to a staggering number of premature deaths. Lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and alcohol consumption significantly contribute to NCDs, making them modifiable risk factors.
Authors Biography
Dr. Raminder Kalra Ph.D. in Nursing from IGNOU, with 38+ years of experience, serves as the Principal at Holy Family College of Nursing. Recognized with prestigious accolades like the President’s Gold Medal and RULA Ratna Research Award 2019. She is a distinguished examiner for nursing examinations across multiple universities. Dr. Kalra has authored papers in renowned journals and contributed to the book “Postgraduate Psychiatry.”
