Shining a light on women’s health

This week, groups and organisations from across Australia celebrated the 12th annual Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week with the theme “Your Voice. Your Choice.”

Running from Monday this week until today (Friday, September 6), the nationwide initiative shines a light on women’s health issues.

Jean Hailes chief executive officer Dr Sarah White said this year was about empowering women to take control of their health and providing them with the tools and knowledge to do so.

“This year, we’re lifting the lid on women’s health issues and encouraging women to speak up and seek support.”

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving women’s health and each year presents Women’s Health Week to workplaces, health organisations, community groups and women.

A range of activities took place right around Australia from exercise groups and panel discussions to lunches and morning teas, with more than 400 events open to the public.

Events were aimed at raising awareness around women’s health and providing the latest health information.

As part of the week, new practical health resources, including a nutrition guide, fact sheets and checklists for discussions with healthcare providers were released.

Five key health topics were addressed across the week.

Know your body

Courageous conversations

Shame and stigma

Point of difference, and

Trust your gut.

“Women’s health is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal issue. We need to work together to create a healthcare system that is responsive to the unique needs of women,” Dr White said.

“Every woman deserves access to accurate, unbiased and evidence-based health information.

“By providing trusted health information and advocating for women’s health, we can support women to enjoy their best health and wellbeing at every life stage.”

Since Women’s Health Week began in 2013, it has continued to grow, reaching more than six million women nationally and featuring more than 1,500 events.

For more information and online resources, head to jeanhailes.org.au

Across Women’s Health Week, women were encouraged to speak up and seek support. Photo: SUPPLIED