Next week, Jean Hailes for Women’s Health will celebrate its annual Women’s Health Week under the theme “Your Voice. Your Choice.”
This nationwide initiative, Australia’s largest event dedicated to women’s health, will see nearly 1950 events taking place across every state and territory, with over 400 open to the public. Last year, more than 300,000 people participated in events held in diverse settings, from boardrooms to community centres, while the online audience reached over 5 million.
Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes, emphasised that this year’s Women’s Health Week is focused on breaking the silence and shame surrounding women’s health issues. “This year, we’re giving women the tools to become their own health advocates,” she said.
The campaign aims to address taboo topics head-on, tackling issues that many women have previously felt uncomfortable discussing. “Shame and stigma have no place in women’s health. It’s time to speak openly about our health issues. To the women of Australia, I want to say, ‘you are not alone, and your stories can inspire others,’” Dr White added.
Key highlights of the week include a focus on often-overlooked women’s health issues, such as bladder leakage, painful sex, and vulval irritation. The campaign will also address the gender gap in healthcare, particularly how conditions like cardiovascular disease present differently in women, and encourage women to have “courageous conversations” with healthcare providers.
“Women live longer, but they spend many more years in poor health. We need healthcare that is specifically designed for women and addresses their unique needs,” said Dr White. She further noted, “Women’s health is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal issue. When we empower women to take control of their health, we’re investing in the wellbeing of entire communities.”
Women’s Health Week promises to be a powerful platform for women across Australia to engage, learn, and take charge of their health.