Sex-Based Discrimination in Medicine Costs Lives Globally 2026

Sex-based discrimination in medicine costs lives, as women are less likely to receive active treatment for the same conditions as men. This inequality is pervasive, from clinical trials to hospital care, and has deadly consequences.

The Scope of Sex-Based Discrimination in Healthcare

Research consistently shows that women receive substandard care compared to men. A British Heart Foundation-funded study found that women were less likely than men to receive recommended care after a heart attack. Research in 2018 estimated that more than 8,000 women's deaths may have been prevented over 10 years had they received the same standard of care as men.

Root Causes: Underrepresentation in Clinical Trials

The problem starts long before a patient reaches the hospital. For years, women have been woefully underrepresented in clinical trials, initially because policy excluded women who might become pregnant. However, women also have busy lives, typically managing home and work, which makes taking time off a challenge that many find impossible.

Consequences of Exclusion

Without representation in the trials that give us safer, more effective medication, women's specific needs are sidelined. This is unacceptable given that women experience 50%-70% more side-effects from drugs than men.

Data on Sex-Based Disparities

Key Takeaways

• Women are less likely to receive active treatment for the same conditions as men.
• Underrepresentation in clinical trials leads to medications that are less safe and effective for women.
• Addressing this inequality requires policy changes and inclusive trial designs.
• Including women in more trials would significantly reduce health inequality.

Path Forward: Addressing the Inequality

Including women in more trials would go a long way towards addressing the health inequality between women and men. It requires concerted efforts from policymakers, researchers, and healthcare providers to ensure that women are adequately represented in clinical research and receive equitable care.

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