In a landmark declaration, the World Health Organization (WHO) has designated 2025 as the Year of Women’s Health, focusing on improving access to reproductive care, maternal health, mental well-being, and equitable medical research.
Across the globe, women face systemic barriers in healthcare — from cultural taboos to underfunded services. In developing countries like India, issues such as anemia, PCOS, breast and cervical cancers, and poor post-natal care remain under-addressed. According to WHO estimates, nearly 30% of Indian women of reproductive age suffer from iron deficiency.
As part of this initiative, WHO is collaborating with national governments to push for gender-responsive healthcare policies. In India, the Ministry of Health has launched campaigns on menstrual hygiene, HPV vaccination, and digital health platforms tailored to women in rural areas.
A key focus is on data: ensuring that clinical trials, drug research, and AI-driven diagnostics include female-specific parameters. This also includes addressing rising mental health issues among women due to work-life imbalance and gender-based violence.
2025 could be a transformative year for women’s health globally — but real change will depend on budgetary commitments, healthcare access, and dismantling deep-rooted stigma around women’s bodies.