Jean Hailes for Women's Health will next week celebrate its annual Women's Health Week under the theme "Your Voice. Your Choice."
The nationwide initiative, Australia's largest event dedicated to women's health, will feature almost 1950 events in every state and territory with over 400 events open to public. Last year, over 300,000 people participated in events held in boardrooms, tearooms, and community centres, while the online audience exceeded 5 million.
Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes, said this year Women's Health Week is about breaking down the walls of silence and shame that have long surrounded women's health issues.
"This year, we're giving women the tools to become their own health advocates."
The campaign aims to tackle taboo topics head-on, addressing issues that many women have felt uncomfortable discussing in the past.
"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'."
Key highlights include:
- A focus on often-overlooked women's health issues, including bladder leakage, painful sex, and vulval irritation.
- Addressing the gender gap in healthcare, highlighting how conditions like cardiovascular disease present differently in women.
- Empowering women to have "courageous conversations" with healthcare providers.
"Women live longer, but they live many more years in poor health. We need healthcare that is specifically designed for women and addresses their unique needs," said Dr White.
"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."
