by Lucy Andrews, AWAquitaine and Health Team Co-Chair
March Health Focus | Supporting Global Well-Being for Women and Girls
Women’s health is a cornerstone of global well-being. When women are healthy, families, communities and economies thrive. For FAWCO members living across many countries and cultures, understanding women’s health from a global perspective strengthens our ability to advocate for the well-being of women and children worldwide.
This month’s focus supports FAWCO’s mission to promote the well-being of women and children and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 5: Gender Equality.
Why Women’s Health Matters
Although women generally live longer than men, they experience unique health challenges and disparities throughout their lives. Access to healthcare, education, economic stability and social support all influence health outcomes for women globally.
Important global health concerns for women include:
- Maternal health and safe childbirth
- Cardiovascular disease in women
- Access to reproductive healthcare
- Mental health and trauma support
- Cancer prevention and early detection
- Healthy aging and chronic disease prevention
Health Across the Lifespan
Adolescence and Early Adulthood
Early health education can shape lifelong well-being. Access to accurate information about nutrition, reproductive health and mental well-being is strongly associated with improved health outcomes for women and girls worldwide (World Health Organization, 2023).
Reproductive Years
Access to prenatal care, reproductive health services and preventive screening is essential during these years. Despite global progress, maternal mortality remains a significant challenge in many regions of the world (WHO, 2023).
Midlife and Menopause
Midlife introduces new health considerations, including hormonal changes, cardiovascular risk and bone health. Increasing awareness of menopause and midlife health is helping women navigate this stage with greater knowledge and support.
Healthy Aging
Women often live longer than men and therefore face unique aging challenges. Maintaining mobility, cognitive health, preventive care and strong social connections can significantly improve quality of life as women age (United Nations, 2023).
How FAWCO Members Can Support Women’s Health
FAWCO members and clubs can contribute to women’s health awareness by:
- Promoting health education within local communities
- Encouraging preventive health screenings
- Sharing reliable health information
- Supporting organizations working to improve women’s health access
- Advocating for equitable healthcare systems
Small actions—raising awareness, sharing resources and supporting community initiatives—can contribute to broader global change.
Opportunities for you and your club!
- Join the Health Team or a start a local group.
- Follow and listen to the many health-related series across FAWCO.
- Have a local discussion in your club.
References
World Health Organization (2023). Women’s health.
United Nations (2023). Sustainable Development Goals.