A recent study conducted by Hologic revealed that women’s satisfaction with the quality of care has decreased in 12 EU countries, with Greece reporting the lowest score at 32%. However, Austria emerged as the top country in Europe for women’s health, ranking third globally. Other countries such as Finland, Germany, and Denmark also made it to the top 10 list of the world’s best countries for women’s health. The study, which surveyed 146,000 participants from 142 countries and territories, took into account criteria such as preventive care, emotional health, basic needs, and individual health. Italy’s ranking dropped five points from the previous year, while Poland saw an increase of eight points.
Globally, more than one-quarter of women reported experiencing health problems that hindered them from participating in activities typical for their age, and 34% indicated that they were in pain for much of the previous day. These levels have increased over the past four years, affecting nearly one billion women worldwide. In the EU, seven countries saw a rise in women facing physical pain, with only Finland showing a decrease. Countries like Germany, Greece, and the Netherlands observed an increase in women experiencing health problems. On the positive side, there was an increase in the number of women being screened for cancer in Belgium, Hungary, and Lithuania, and women in Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, and Lithuania felt that their area provided high-quality care during pregnancy.
The study also shed light on women’s mental health in the European Union, with reports of higher levels of stress and worry in seven member states. Countries such as Austria, Greece, Lithuania, and Spain showed higher levels of worry among women, while Bulgaria, Malta, and the Netherlands reported increased stress levels. However, women in the Czech Republic, Finland, France, and Hungary indicated a decrease in worry levels. It is crucial to address and monitor women’s mental health as stress and worry can significantly impact overall wellbeing and quality of life.
Ensuring access to quality healthcare and addressing women’s health concerns are imperative to improving overall well-being and satisfaction with care. The study’s findings highlight the disparities in women’s health across different countries and regions, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and support. By identifying areas that require improvement and implementing effective strategies, policymakers and healthcare providers can work towards advancing women’s health and promoting positive health outcomes. Collaborative efforts and a holistic approach to women’s health are essential to creating a healthcare system that meets the diverse needs of women and fosters better health outcomes at both the individual and population levels.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of women’s health, it is crucial to prioritize research, advocacy, and policy initiatives that address the unique health needs of women. By investing in women’s health and promoting gender-sensitive care, we can work towards achieving better health outcomes and promoting gender equality. The findings of the Women’s Health Index underscore the importance of focusing on women’s health and well-being, identifying areas for improvement, and developing strategies to enhance the quality of care and support available to women. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to women’s health, we can empower women to lead healthier lives and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.
