The Hidden Truths of Women's Health Revealed

Key Takeaways

Despite the perception that a significant portion of healthcare research and development is dedicated to women’s health, the reality is that only a small percentage of investments are focused on addressing the numerous challenges and conditions specific to women.
The findings also emphasize the necessity for accurate and accessible information about the prevalence of different types of cancers among women to dispel these misconceptions.
There is a lack of recognition and understanding about the gender health gap, with only 39% of respondents acknowledging its existence.

Access All Stats & Findings from Sago’s Survey on Women’s Health.

In a world where medical advancements are hailed as the pinnacle of progress, there exists a striking disparity in the realm of women’s health. Our latest omnibus survey seeks to shed light on the obscured corners of women’s health. Read on and dive deep into the insights on topics like women’s health misconceptions, research and development, the gender health gap, and infertility.

Research & Development Investment

When it comes to healthcare research and development, there seems to be a significant gap between perceptions and reality regarding the proportion of investment focused on women’s health issues. While men perceived that 43% of healthcare research and development is dedicated to women’s health, women themselves perceived a slightly lower investment of 39%. However, the actual investment in women’s health research is only 4%. (Source)

This funding gap showcases a significant discrepancy between public perception and the actual allocation of resources for women’s health research. With such a minimal investment, it becomes apparent that women’s health is not receiving the attention it deserves, considering the numerous challenges and conditions specific to women.

Common Misconceptions on Women’s Health Conditions

Breast cancer is widely believed to be the most common cancer amongst women in the US. Overall, a staggering 72% of respondents held this misconception. This belief was consistent across different age group. In reality, skin cancer is the most common cancer among women in the US. (Source) Unfortunately, only 5% of respondents demonstrated awareness of this fact. Similarly, awareness levels within different age groups were also quite low.

These misconceptions highlight the need for accurate and accessible information about the prevalence of different types of cancers among women.

The Gender Health Gap

There is a lack of recognition regarding the existence of a gender health gap that needs to be addressed. Only 39% of respondents overall acknowledge the existence of this gap. However, there is a significant gender divide: 32% of men recognize the gender health gap, compared to 45% of women. This discrepancy indicates a lack of understanding and awareness among men regarding the specific health challenges faced by women.

Furthermore, when asked about the duration of poor health in women’s lives, only 26% of respondents are aware that women spend 25% more of their lives in poor health compared to men. (Source) This lack of awareness is particularly pronounced among men, with only 20% acknowledging this fact.

Overall, there is a substantial portion (61%) of respondents who do not recognize the gender health gap, highlighting the need for increased education and awareness regarding the unique health challenges faced by women.

Infertility Myth vs. Fact

When it comes to infertility, there are significant misconceptions among the general populace. Both men and women overestimate the prevalence of infertility in the US. In terms of coverage for infertility treatments, most respondents believe that these treatments should be covered by insurance. Overall agreement stands at 60% for men and 68% for women. This support for coverage highlights the recognition of infertility as a valid medical condition that should not be financially burdensome for those seeking treatment.

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In conclusion, these statistics and misconceptions surrounding women’s health highlight the need for greater awareness of the unique health challenges faced by women. By addressing these misunderstandings and gaps in knowledge, we can work towards a more equitable and informed approach to women’s health research and healthcare.

If you’re wondering how market research can uncover the truth in critical data and have a greater impact on positive outcomes in healthcare, you can find out in our webinar “Breaking the Silence on Women’s Health: from Perception to Truth.”