Empowering Women Through Gender-Sensitive Healthcare Initiatives

Experts stress the urgent need for gender-sensitive healthcare policies focusing on cancer screening and mental well-being for women. With only 1% of Indian women undergoing cervical cancer screenings, the gap in early detection is significant, necessitating immediate attention to improve health outcomes across the nation.

Experts from diverse fields call for urgent reforms in India's healthcare policies, emphasizing gender-sensitive and women-centric approaches. Despite the availability of vaccines for cervical cancer, only 1% of women undergo necessary screenings, starkly lower than the World Health Organization's target of 70%.

Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, highlights the importance of inclusive healthcare, calling for tailored services for marginalized groups across India. She stresses that healthcare equity ensures everyone, especially women and persons with disabilities, has access to preventive care. Her call to action urges women to engage in regular screenings, especially for prevalent cancers and mental health.

Former cricket captain Kapil Dev underscores the critical role of grassroots initiatives in enhancing healthcare access. Through the Khushii Foundation, he integrates health with education to promote timely disease intervention. Dev emphasizes the importance of fostering a fitness culture and preventive care, advocating widespread health awareness that can lead to improved medical outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)