WOMEN’S HEALTH: The Importance of Equal Representation in Clinical Trials

WOMEN’S HEALTH:

The Importance of Equal Representation in Clinical Trials 

Did you know? Women spend 25% more of their lives in poor health compared to men, yet receive less than half the research funding for health conditions that affect them. This isn't just a health issue—it's an economic one, with an estimated $1 trillion potential boost to the global economy if the women's health gap is addressed.  

In an article published in NutraIngredients, explore the critical need for equal representation in clinical trials, data gaps, and barriers to participation with authors, and WIN Science Committee members, Devon Gholam, Ph.D., Vice President of Science and Innovation at Step Change Innovations, and Julia Wiebe, PhD, WIN Board Member and Managing Director at red otc development GmbH - a company of Finzelberg.

Contributing experts include Cynthia G. Suarez Rizzo, Ph.D, Expert New Product Development at Finzelberg, and Mónica Olivares Martín, Research and Development Director for Women and Infant Health at Kerry, and WIN Science Committee member.

Key Highlights  

- Women experience adverse drug reactions 52% more often than men due to lack of gender-specific research.  

- Women-led studies enroll 7% more women participants, underscoring the importance of increasing female principal investigators. 

- Addressing logistical barriers—childcare, transport, and flexible hours—can enhance participation and trust.  

Solutions: From AI-driven tools tailored to female biology to better communication and inclusive recruitment practices, this article outlines a roadmap for equitable clinical trials.  

Why it Matters: Closing the gender gap in medical research isn't just about fairness; it's about saving lives, improving health outcomes, and fostering stronger economies.  

Read the full article to learn how driving research for women, by women can transform healthcare and beyond!  

Link to full NutraIngredients article HERE.