Autoimmune Health Crisis: An Inclusive Approach to Addressing Disparities in Women in the United States

Syreen Goulmamine, Sarah Chew and Irene O. Aninye ()
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Syreen Goulmamine: Society for Women’s Health Research, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Sarah Chew: Society for Women’s Health Research, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Irene O. Aninye: Society for Women’s Health Research, Washington, DC 20036, USA

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 10, 1-14

Abstract: Autoimmune diseases are identified by the chronic inflammation and tissue damage resulting from unregulated immune responses throughout the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are among the 80+ characterized conditions, 80% of which are diagnosed in women. The compounded effects of biological sex and hormones; social identities, such as age, race, and gender; and other determinants on health highlight a pressing need for an inclusive approach to address disparities for women living with autoimmune diseases. Such an approach must recognize and incorporate intersectional experiences of diverse populations of women into biomedical research, clinical practice, and policy solutions. Research must prioritize inclusive designs, data collection, and representation of women in clinical studies. Clinical care must focus on developing guidelines and promoting patient–provider interactions that meet a range of demographic needs. Health care policies must support financial investments in research and equitable access to care. This review provides an overview of the impacts of autoimmune diseases on women’s health through an intersectional lens, identifies persistent gaps in addressing the unique needs of women, and proposes recommendations for a comprehensive, equity-focused approach to mitigate disparities and better serve all women at risk for or living with autoimmune diseases.

Keywords: autoimmune disease; type 1 diabetes mellitus; Hashimoto’s thyroiditis; health disparities; health equity; intersectionality; systemic lupus erythematosus; women’s health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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