Since 1987, 28th May is dedicated to the International Day of Action for Women’s Health.  

This year campaign wishes to reflect on women’s collective demands to the right to health, including sexual and reproductive health and rights and justice (SRHRJ).  

Strengthening Health Systems to Uphold Health Rights and SRHRJ underscores that even in the midst of multiple overlapping crises (poly-crisis) worldwide, SRHRJ is essential, not optional and must continue to be prioritized as a fundamental right to health, building equitable, people-centred public health systems that are accessible to all.  

As JA Jade Health is committed to improve prevention, early detection and management of neurological disorders, as well as reducing health inequalities, we use the opportunity of the International Day of Action for Women’s Health to draw attention to unique risks of women and their special vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases to highlight how to prevent, detect, and treat women’s health more effectively.  

Neurodegenerative Diseases deeply affect women’s health:  

Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis (MS) are not just diseases of aging; They are conditions where women face unique risks and, in some cases, distinct symptom patterns compared to men. Women are also more likely to take up caring roles for loved ones living with dementia. Yet, just like in heart disease, these differences are often overlooked. 

Alzheimer’s disease:  

Women are almost twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer’s, and it’s not just because they live longer. Hormonal changes, genetics, and even differences in the immune system play a part. Once diagnosed, women also tend to decline faster. 

Parkinson’s disease:

women often experience Parkinson’s differently. Tremor is more likely to be their first symptom, while men show more stiffness and walking difficulties. Women also report more non-motor symptoms, like depression, fatigue, or pain, which can delay recognition and treatment. 

Multiple sclerosis (MS):

Women are three times more likely than men to develop MS due to the influence of sex hormones, the presence of certain genes, and lifestyle factors. They are also more likely to have the relapsing-remitting form, marked by flare-ups of numbness, tingling, or vision problems.  

Women’s unique biology should be recognized, not overlooked. By bringing sex-specific differences to light, from heart health to brain health, a healthier, longer life for women can be achieved. 

We can help to uncover why diseases affect women differently by supporting early-stage research and knowledge in female health and longevity.  

What we can do today? 

Let’s learn more about the early signs of neurodegenerative diseases, and don’t ignore changes in memory, movement, or mood. 

Let’s take brain health seriously: regular exercise, good sleep, balanced nutrition, and social engagement all help lower risk. 

Let’s share knowledge: awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have until research catches up.  

Find out more  Call to action    and   Global consultations report

#SexualHealth #SRHR #WSHD2026  

 
#MentalHealth #dementia #JADEHealth_EU #BrainHealth #EU4Health #JADEhealth 

#WomensHealth #WomensHealthMonth