Underscoring the essential link between national progress and women’s health, Surgeon Vice Admiral Dr Arti Sarin on Monday expressed concerns that the majority of women in marginalized communities across the country continue to have limited emergency care access and high maternal mortality rates.
“The health and wellness of a nation are not only a matter of human rights but also crucial to its progress. Women in our nation continue to face specific challenges that we actively discuss and strive to resolve. Maternity health, nutrition, reproductive health, and mental health are among the key health concerns. Additionally, issues such as lack of access to emergency care, cultural barriers, and maternal mortality rates of 97 to 100,000 births are pressing concerns,” said Dr Sarin at the Women’s Health India (WHI 2024) Conference held here. Attended by an array of health experts and researchers besides policy makers, the event provided a platform for discussing evidence-based strategies and collaborations that could mitigate the impact of diseases on women. .Dr. Madhu Goel, Director - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laparoscopy Surgeon and Infertility Specialist, Fortis La Femme, Delhi, spoke about maternal health and environmental factors. “Air pollution, water pollution, and noise pollution not only impact the health of the mother but also affect the next generation. Whatever a mother is exposed to can influence her child’s health. It’s crucial to take proper care beyond just diet. Factors like using mobile phones, laptops, and microwaves can also have an impact on the child.”
When asked whether access to healthcare for women is changing and evolving?’ Dr Goel opined that while physical access to hospitals in rural areas has indeed improved, financial access has not improved.
She emphasized the absence of health insurance in rural health sectors, highlighting its necessity. Furthermore, she lamented the lacking attitude towards investing in women’s health. Although digital access has seen advancements, its practical implementation on the ground remains deficient. Dr. Madhu also pointed out persistent pre-existing stereotypes and the enduring male gender bias that continue to pose challenges despite efforts to overcome them.
While addressing the agenda on ‘Empowering women’s Health through Innovations and Connectivity’, Dr. Urvashi Prasad, Director, NITI Aayog said, many women, including those from tribal areas, with disabilities, less education, above 60 years of age, and widows, often remain unheard in mainstream discussions due to cultural and social reasons.
“Addressing their issues requires substantial effort. While progress has been made in impacting women’s lives, certain factors still need attention, such as sanitation, personal care, and awareness. However, socio-cultural barriers and limited access to healthcare continue to hinder progress. Agencies must step up efforts to educate women about health, financial empowerment, and other important aspects.”
Devika Bhatia, Product Manager at the National Health Authority (NHA), Dr. Prachi Sambhaji Sharda, Mental Health Consultant at WHO, Dr. Reena Valecha Balani, Wellness Manager for Corporate Health at TATA Motors, Dr. Charu Sharma (PT), Physical Rehabilitation Project Manager at the International Committee of the Red Cross was among the speakers who shared their views on women’s health.
