In this first episode of The Fifth Wave, host Avis Favaro explores the pervasive issue of gender data gaps and how women have been historically excluded from research that shapes our daily lives all over the planet. Drawing from Caroline Criado Perez’s book “Invisible Women”, this episode unpacks the systemic biases in medicine, urban planning and public policy that continue to favour men. Featuring thought provoking insights from Jennifer Gillivan, Dr. Maria Migas and Dr. Jeffrey Mogil, this episode shines a light on the unseen forces that make women “invisible” in data. And what can be done to change it.
Key takeaways:
- The gender data gap is real. Most research, from drug trials to urban planning, has historically been conducted using male subjects, leaving women’s unique needs unaddressed.
- Medical bias puts women at risk. Women experience diseases differently, but treatments and diagnoses are often based on male data, leading to misdiagnoses and improper care.
- Change starts with awareness and action. Advocates like Jennifer Gillivan, Dr. Maria Migas and Dr. Jeffrey Mogil, emphasize the need for better education and inclusive research to ensure policies and systems that work for everyone.
Listen in to uncover why gender data disparities matter – and how we can create a more equitable world for all. ------Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez
-Jennifer Gillivan, President and CEO of the IWK Foundation in Halifax, NS
https://iwkfoundation.org/-Dr. Maria Migas, family physician and certified menopause practitioner, Halifax, NS
-Dr. Jeffrey Mogil, EP Taylor professor of pain studies at McGill University in Montreal, QC
