Although women have a higher life expectancy and lower mortality rate, they spend fewer years in good health. Certain health issues primarily affect women or impact them differently. Additionally, women tend to use healthcare services differently and approach the system with distinct concerns. For instance, women are more frequently diagnosed with depression, whereas men have a higher suicide rate.
Digitalization is fundamentally transforming the healthcare sector through technologies such as algorithms, robots, and artificial intelligence. These innovations offer new opportunities and challenges for prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Care processes and the way healthcare services are utilized are evolving.
However, risks arise due to the so-called ‘gender bias’ in databases, as many datasets, models, and algorithms fail to adequately account for women. This can exacerbate existing inequalities, potentially impacting women’s health. A gender-equitable approach to these new developments is essential to prevent discrimination against women
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