The mindbodygreen Podcast
554: The dark history of women’s health | Award-winning physician Elizabeth Comen, M.D.
Aug 18, 2024
Dr. Elizabeth Comen, an award-winning oncologist, dives into the troubling historical treatment of women's health in medicine. She highlights the biases in medical research, especially regarding heart disease and hormone therapy. Dr. Comen also shares her personal journey, discusses advancements in breast cancer treatment, and emphasizes the need for women to advocate for themselves. The conversation sheds light on systemic disparities and calls for a more inclusive approach to healthcare for women.
44:32
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Quick takeaways
- The historical neglect and misunderstanding of women's health in medicine has led to significant gaps in research and treatment personalized for women.
- Advocating for oneself in the medical community is crucial for women, as their symptoms are often minimized or dismissed, hindering proper diagnosis.
Deep dives
Historical Dismissal of Women's Health Issues
For years, women's health has been largely overlooked and dismissed in medical research, leading to significant gaps in understanding and treatment. This neglect is attributed to a long-standing history where women's bodies were misunderstood, often resulting in them being labeled as 'hysterical' when seeking help for genuine health issues. Notable examples include the historical practices of gynecology, which often neglected the voices of women, particularly minorities, leading to exploitative medical practices. This systemic disregard has resulted in a significant educational gap regarding women's specific health needs and symptoms that differ from men's.
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