Medical Perspectives with Dr. Rob: International Women & Girls Day

Hello, I’m Dr. Rob Gillio,

Chief Medical Officer at the Force for Health Network.

Today, we recognize International Women & Girls Day,

a time to reflect on the health challenges, inequalities, and opportunities

that impact women and girls worldwide—

and what we can all do to create meaningful change.

The Health Challenges Women Face

Women make up half the world’s population,

yet too many still face barriers to care, safety, and opportunity.

Here are some of the most urgent health issues:

💖 Heart Disease – The #1 killer of women,

yet symptoms are often missed or misdiagnosed.

🎗️ Breast & Cervical Cancer –

Screenings save lives, but access isn’t equal.

🩸 Maternal Health Complications –

Many deaths during childbirth are preventable with proper care.

🧠 Mental Health & Stress –

Women face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout.

🛑 Gender-Based Violence –

1 in 3 women worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence.

🌍 Global Health Inequality –

In many places, women still lack basic access to healthcare,

education, and human rights.

What Can Women Do to Protect Their Health?

The good news is that many health risks can be reduced

with awareness, action, and support.

✅ Know the signs of heart disease –

Women’s symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, or nausea.

✅ Get screened regularly –

Mammograms, Pap smears, and yearly checkups can catch issues early.

✅ Prioritize mental health –

Self-care, therapy, and stress management are essential, not optional.

✅ Stay active and eat well –

Nutrition and movement support your heart, hormones, and brain health.

✅ Advocate for yourself –

Trust your instincts. Speak up. Ask questions until you get answers.

How Can We Support Women & Girls?

Creating a healthier world for women and girls

is a responsibility we all share.

👩‍⚕️ Support access to care –

Encourage checkups, vaccinations, and preventive health services.

📚 Empower through education –

Educated girls become healthier, stronger women.

🛑 Speak out against violence –

Believe and protect survivors. Report abuse. End the silence.

💼 Promote workplace equity –

Fight for equal pay, maternity leave, and leadership opportunities.

💙 Remind women that their health matters –

Check in. Encourage screenings. Support their well-being.

Final Thought

Women and girls are the backbone of our families,

our communities, and our global future.

This International Women & Girls Day,

let’s commit to breaking down barriers,

improving access to care,

and lifting each other up.

I’m Dr. Rob—

Stay informed,

Take action,

And be a Force for Health.

See you next time!

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