The recent publication of a groundbreaking report in The Lancet Haematology has shed light on the critical issue of women's blood care, offering a comprehensive roadmap to address the global disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for women and girls with hematological conditions. This report, led by Cleveland Clinic hematologist Dr. Bethany Samuelson Bannow, highlights the urgent need for action to bridge the gender gap in hematological health and ensure equitable, evidence-based care worldwide.
One of the most striking findings of the report 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 disparity underscores the need for earlier and more consistent screening and assessment, particularly for heavy menstrual bleeding, which affects up to one in three women and is often the first sign of an inherited bleeding disorder. The report calls for routine menstrual health assessments, broader use of bleeding assessment tools, and stronger referral pathways to support earlier recognition and care.
The commission set an ambitious goal to reduce the average time from symptom onset to diagnosis for women and girls with bleeding disorders to less than 24 months by 2035. Achieving this target will require the integration of screening recommendations into major guidelines and clinician education. This is a crucial step towards ensuring that women receive timely and effective care, addressing the current inequities in hematological health.
The report also emphasizes the need for universal screening for heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency, standardized postpartum hemorrhage protocols, and more personalized thrombosis care during pregnancy and the postpartum period. These recommendations are essential to address the unique challenges women face related to bleeding and clotting disorders throughout their lives.
Furthermore, the report calls for immediate action to close gender gaps in hematological health. This includes faster diagnosis of bleeding disorders, greater inclusion of women in research, targeted education and prevention programs, and stronger investment in women's health. By addressing these gaps, we can ensure that women receive the care they need and deserve, leading to improved health outcomes globally.
In my opinion, this report is a call to action for the global healthcare community. It highlights the urgent need for coordinated action across clinical care, research, and education to deliver more timely, effective, and equitable hematology care for women and girls around the world. With the right investments and policies, we can bridge the gender gap in hematological health and ensure that women receive the best possible care.
The publication of this commission represents a significant milestone for women's health and hematology. It provides a valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and advocates to improve outcomes globally. By addressing the disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes, we can create a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system for women and girls worldwide.
