Introduction
In a move to address the longstanding gaps in women’s health research, President Biden has issued a memorandum establishing the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research. Recognizing that women constitute half of the U.S. population, the initiative aims to bridge the knowledge divide in areas such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, autoimmune disorders, mental health conditions, and women-specific conditions like endometriosis and fibroids.
Beyond immediate health implications, the President underscores the broader impact of underinvesting in women’s health research, affecting well-being, quality of life, workplace equality, and economic security for women and their families. Conversely, increased investments in women’s health research promise extensive societal gains, including lower healthcare costs and a more productive and inclusive workforce.
The initiative will focus on accelerating research into the unique health needs of women across their lifespans, particularly in midlife and later years, addressing conditions associated with perimenopause and menopause to tackle pervasive gaps in knowledge. This effort emphasizes inclusivity, targeting historically underrepresented individuals in research.
Key Actions Outlined in the Memorandum
- Establishment of the Initiative: Housed within the Office of the First Lady, a Chair with a dual role in the Office of the First Lady and the White House Gender Policy Council will lead the initiative.
- Membership: The Initiative will consist of heads or designees from various executive departments and agencies, ensuring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to women’s health research.
- Funding and Support: The Department of Health and Human Services will provide necessary funding and administrative support, promoting collaboration and efficiency.
- Mission and Functions: The Initiative’s advisory role includes assessing the federal research landscape, setting priorities, improving coordination, developing policy recommendations, addressing disparities, and promoting the translation of research into practical benefits.
- Recommendations: Within 45 days, the initiative will provide concrete recommendations to the President on actions agencies and offices can take to advance women’s health research.
This initiative signifies a commitment to galvanizing women’s health research, fostering innovation, and ensuring equitable access to high-quality healthcare for women across the United States. Regular updates will be provided to the President as progress unfolds, emphasizing transparency and accountability in this endeavor.
View the official White House Memorandum for additional details.
