Women are crucial in our families and communities, yet their health is often neglected or overlooked. In India's 3-tier cities, women face many barriers to accessing essential healthcare services, from cultural inhibitions to financial constraints. As a result, many women suffer from undiagnosed and untreated health issues, including non-communicable diseases like hypothyroidism, diabetes, hypertension, and anemia.
One of the critical barriers to women's health in these cities is the perception that women in the households are immune to health issues and cannot be sick. This mindset is deeply ingrained in many families and communities. It can delay and prevent women from seeking medical attention when needed. Additionally, social constraints and inhibitions can make it difficult for women to access healthcare services, particularly if they need to travel long distances or visit a male doctor.
However, it's essential to recognize that women's health is critical for building strong families and communities and, ultimately, a stronger nation. Preventive evaluation and check-ups can significantly improve women's health and reduce the financial burden on families and communities. Even if women cannot go out for health evaluation, healthcare providers must reach out with preventive medical evaluations from home to home, no matter how long it takes.
One of the most inspiring quotes on this topic comes from Florence Nightingale, who once said, "The connection between health and the progress of society is no longer doubtful." In other words, when women are healthy, their families and communities are healthy, and society can progress.
To empower women and improve their health in 3-tier cities, we must prioritize women's health needs and rights. We must invest in women's health, provide access to affordable healthcare services, and break down the cultural inhibitions and social constraints that prevent women from seeking medical attention. When we do so, we can create a healthier and more prosperous future for all women and their families in India's 3-tier cities.
In conclusion, women's health is critical in India's 3-tier cities. We need to prioritize women's health needs and rights and provide access to affordable healthcare services. Doing so can build stronger families, communities, and a stronger nation.
Along this direction, Anjana Foundation, Public Charitable Trust Mumbai, has started its " Health to Home" mission - " Ghar Ghar Seva - Har Ghar Seva. "
To learn more, please visit anjanafoundation.com
Regards,
Dr. Deepak Chaturvedi, MD, Medicine.