For far too long, both the field of medicine and clinical/scientific research have extrapolated findings and developed care guidelines based on studies of the white male population. Unfortunately, a lack of diversity in areas such as gender and race/ethnicity is still very typical in 2021. This shortcoming exists from the design of studies to recruitment criteria for clinical trials and from analysis of data to the conclusions subsequently drawn, which are then disseminated and often viewed as complete and accurate insights upon which actions are taken by the medical community in the treatment of patients.
Thankfully, there’s an increasingly global focus and greater investment in women’s health and well-being. There are more companies recognizing and working on solutions to help address the healthcare issues women have struggled with for years. Given the stakes and impact on health outcomes, all women should take notice of the growth in the digital health arena.
Paying attention and speaking up are critical. It was women’s voices raising questions about changes they observed in their menstrual cycle that triggered the research being funded by the NIH to understand if reports of shorter/longer, lighter/heavier, less/more frequent periods following immunization against the novel coronavirus might be related to COVID-19 vaccines themselves.
Want to learn more about why active engagement is critical? Listen to Dr. Paula Johnson’s powerful TED talk, which discusses some of the negative consequences suffered by women related to the historical approach to advancing knowledge and clinical/scientific breakthroughs.
To a greater extent than you may realize or embrace, you’re in the driver’s seat of your health and well-being. Your actions, and inaction, can impact how you move through life, from your mood to your immune system.
Let today be the start of standing in your power, and make your health and well-being a priority.
Learn More About Menopause In Less Than 5 Minutes!
Study To Investigate Impacts of COVID Vaccines on Menstruation
Johns Hopkins Medicine
COVID-19 Vaccines and Mammograms: 7 Things To Know
The University of Texas MDAnderson Cancer Center
Know a woman you’d like to celebrate? Email us: info@peopletweaker.com. We will spotlight one of these vibrant women in an upcoming issue of Menopause Minute.
