Women's Historic Impact and Modern Health Imperatives in India
Throughout international history, women have played a revolutionary and courageous role, from the 1857 Women's Rights Movement by garment workers in New York City to the 1917 strike in St. Petersburg for "Bread and Peace" that demanded an end to World War I, and demonstrations by women textile workers during Russia's February Revolution. These actions highlight women's enduring strength and influence in shaping societies.
Focus on Women's Health in India
In the Indian context, emphasizing women's health and promoting preventive measures is crucial. This not only enhances women's bargaining power and empowerment but also enables them to contribute more effectively to national development. Women are responsible for 70-80% of all healthcare provided in India, underscoring their pivotal role in family and community well-being.
Government Initiative: Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar
To address these needs, the Indian government launched the 'Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar' (Healthy Woman, Empowered Family) Abhiyaan on September 17, 2025. This initiative aims to improve women's health through comprehensive, life-cycle-based screening and nutritional support, targeting key health issues prevalent among Indian women.
Common Health Issues Among Indian Women
Women in India face numerous health challenges, including:
- Nutritional deficiencies and high rates of anaemia and malnutrition.
- Reproductive and gynaecological problems such as PCOS, menstrual irregularities, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory diseases.
- Urinary tract infections and non-communicable diseases like obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and cardiovascular diseases.
- Bone health issues, mental health concerns, and social challenges.
- Breast and cervical cancers, which are the most common cancers among women.
Preventive Measures and Screening
Comprehensive yearly routine blood checks can aid in the timely diagnosis of anaemias, nutritional deficiencies, bone health problems, diabetes, thyroid diseases, and some malignancies. Periodic ultrasonography and X-rays of the abdomen and chest should be integral parts of health checks.
Fortunately, the two topmost cancers can be prevented through simple awareness and periodic health checks:
- Breast Cancer: Prevention includes self-examination of the breast and yearly breast mammography.
- Cervical Cancer: Prevention involves periodic PAP smear examinations and HPV DNA studies, along with an HPV vaccination schedule starting at adolescent or pre-adolescent age.
Challenges in Women's Health in India
Women in India face significant obstacles to good health, including:
- Gender bias and early marriage and childbirth.
- Unawareness of contraceptive use and improper hygiene practices.
- Burden of family responsibilities, lack of education, and financial independence.
- Limited exposure to the external world and the overall status of women in society.
- Lack of awareness about diseases and health policies.
Governments and NGOs are working to minimize these obstacles, but much progress is still needed.
The Path Forward
Awareness of health issues, education on preventive health programs, and availability of diagnostic modalities are essential. These measures can not only prevent diseases but also facilitate timely treatment, empowering women to lead healthier lives and contribute more robustly to India's growth.
This article is authored by Dr. Geeta Chopra, Chief of Lab – North India Operations, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd.
