Older women's health is understudied and neglected. That needs to change. (19 June 2024)

Summary

Older women are underrepresented in healthcare research, which has serious implications for the safety and effectiveness of the treatment they receive. In 2023, the US Government promised to address this problem through the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research. This article examines some of the issues caused by lack of knowledge about how common health issues affect older women. It suggests priorities that should be included in the new initiative, including mental health, heart disease, brain health, cancer and bone health and frailty. More research in these areas will improve the safety and effectiveness of care and treatment for older women.