Gendered Assumptions in Digital Health Solutions
Gendered assumptions can emerge in digital health solutions when tools, such as menstrual health apps, are developed without sufficient input from women. This often leads to overlooking key aspects of women’s experiences, such as the complexities of menstrual cycles, pain management, and privacy concerns. Without diverse perspectives in the design process, these apps may fail to fully meet women’s needs, resulting in less effective and inclusive solutions for managing menstrual health.
Stereotype Bias in Women's Healthcare
Stereotype bias creates disparities in women’s healthcare, leading to underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. Women's pain is often underestimated and misattributed as emotional rather than physical, resulting in less effective pain management. Conditions like heart disease are frequently missed due to stereotypes misinterpreting symptoms. Women are also more likely to be prescribed sedatives or antidepressants instead of appropriate treatments, reflecting the psychologization of their health issues. This bias undermines equitable care and worsens health outcomes for women.
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Gendered Laws and Women's Financial Inclusion; Caroline Perrin, Marie Hyland; World Bank Group, Development Economics Global Indicators Group, January 2023
Ditching Male Defaults - https://www.ideo.com/journal/ditching-male-defaults
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Global Gender Gap Index data - World Economic Forum (2024)
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‘Women and Men in India 2023’ report from the Union government
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