, maternal and reproductive health is a focal concern in the MENA region. While there have been improvements in
, they remain high in several countries. Women, primarily due to their childbearing roles, are the largest users of health services in the region. However, cultural constraints and institutional barriers significantly hinder access to reproductive health services.
Gender disparities in healthcare
Gender disparities in healthcare access and outcomes are evident in the MENA region, particularly among low-literacy rural populations. Although infant mortality has been shrinking for both boys and girls, women face significant inequities once they reach reproductive age. Additionally, the scarcity of gender-disaggregated data complicates efforts to accurately assess and address these disparities. These inequities often prevent women from recognizing and addressing health issues.
Concurrently, lifestyle-related health issues such as obesity and diabetes are on the rise. Female obesity rates in the region are significantly high, with many MENA countries among those with
the highest overweight and obesity rates worldwide. This is driven by shifting dietary habits, physical inactivity, and poor health awareness. Public initiatives promoting healthier lifestyles are essential to tackle the growing burden of non-communicable diseases among women in the MENA region.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant issue in several MENA countries, with
high FGM prevalence rates in Egypt and Sudan. This practice poses severe health risks, including chronic pain, infections, and childbirth complications. Additionally, there is a trend of medical professionals performing FGM, particularly in Sudan and Egypt, which complicates efforts to eliminate the practice. According to a UNICEF survey in 2020, just above half of
women and girls worldwide had awareness of FGM and think the practice should end. Addressing FGM requires a multi-faceted approach, including public health campaigns, legal reforms, and community-based interventions to eradicate the practice.
The future is FemTech
According to FemTech Analytics’ Global FemTech Industry’s report in 2021, North America leads the market, followed by Europe and Asia. Initially focused on reproductive health and pregnancy, the
FemTech industry is expanding to a broader range of female health issues. In the MENA region, key FemTech areas include pelvic and uterine health, general healthcare, and pregnancy and nursing. The UAE is experiencing notable growth in women's healthcare, driven by increased awareness, changing perceptions, investor interest, and government support for new FemTech projects.
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