Gender and health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: conceptual and operational advocacy
Abstract
A gender perspective in health leads to a better understanding of the factors that influence the health of women and of men and is vital if equitable and effective health policies and strategies are to be developed and implemented. It is not only concerned with biological differences between women and men, or with women's reproductive role, but acknowledges the effects of the social, familial, cultural, political, economic, behavioural and spiritual determinants on relationships, roles and responsibilities of men and women, especially on individual, family and community health. The concept of gender can be used as a tool for exploring the reasons for these differences, and for identifying ways in which health outcomes for both males and females can be improved. This booklet is aimed at stakeholders in health and other sectors that determine health, both public and private. It seeks to clarify the conceptualization of gender in health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, as well as promote the operationalization of gender in healthCitation
World Health Organization. Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean. (2006). Gender and health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: conceptual and operational advocacy. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/116503