Women’s Health and Diagnostic Testing Challenges

This technical report addresses the diagnostic testing challenges faced by women, particularly in resource-constrained countries. It outlines how women's reproductive health needs, pregnancy, and childbirth necessitate more diagnostic tests throughout their lives. However, limited access to these essential tests due to economic, sociocultural, and gender inequalities significantly impacts women's health outcomes. The report discusses the systemic issue known as the sex-diagnostic gap, which leads to delayed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. It also presents FIND's approach to closing this gap through collaboration, integration of diagnostics into national health policies, and the development of women-centric technologies. The report details various interventions implemented in countries like South Africa, Kenya, and India, which aim to enhance access to quality diagnostics for women. FIND's commitment to co-creation with local actors and gender equity is emphasized as a critical factor in addressing these health disparities and improving women's health diagnostics globally.