In a groundbreaking development, a new report published in The Lancet Haematology has shed light on the urgent need to address gender disparities in blood-related health conditions. Led by Dr. Bethany Samuelson Bannow, a renowned hematologist from Cleveland Clinic, the report offers a comprehensive roadmap to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for women and girls worldwide.
The Commission on Global Female Health and Haematology highlights a critical gap in women's health, with women facing higher rates of anemia, delayed diagnoses, and undertreatment for bleeding and clotting disorders. This is particularly concerning during menstruation, pregnancy, and the postpartum period.
One of the most striking findings is the significant delay in diagnosing bleeding disorders among women. On average, women wait 14 to 16 years for a diagnosis, compared to just two years for men. This delay is unacceptable and underscores the need for immediate action.
Heavy menstrual bleeding, affecting up to one-third of women, is often the first indicator of an inherited bleeding disorder. However, it is frequently dismissed or inadequately addressed. The report calls for routine menstrual health assessments and the broader implementation of bleeding assessment tools to facilitate earlier recognition and care.
The commission has set an ambitious yet achievable goal to reduce the average time from symptom onset to diagnosis for bleeding disorders in women and girls to less than 24 months by 2035. This target can be met by incorporating screening recommendations into major guidelines and providing clinician education.
Pantep Angchaisuksiri, M.D., President of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), emphasizes the unique challenges women face with bleeding and clotting disorders throughout their lives. He believes this commission provides an essential resource for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and advocates to enhance global outcomes.
The report calls for urgent action to close gender gaps in hematological health and ensure equitable, evidence-based care worldwide. Key recommendations include faster diagnosis of bleeding disorders, universal screening for heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency, standardized postpartum hemorrhage protocols, and personalized thrombosis care during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Dr. Samuelson Bannow emphasizes the clear evidence that meaningful progress is possible. With coordinated efforts across clinical care, research, and education, we can deliver more timely, effective, and equitable hematology care for women and girls globally.
This report is a significant milestone in the journey towards gender equality in healthcare. It is a call to action for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to address these disparities and ensure that women receive the care they deserve.
