Sex [biological factors] and gender [socio-cultural factors] are variables that should be taken into consideration in order to conduct a comprehensive analysis of healthcare interventions.

Why consider sex and gender?

There are numerous differences in how women, men and gender diverse people experience health (different conditions, different symptoms), access health care, and respond to therapies such as drug interventions. At the same time there is also great diversity within populations of women and men, including factors related to social determinants such as education, socio-economic status, geographic location, ethnicity, and so on, which may affect access to and use of the healthcare system.

Expert Advice

As the importance of integrating a sex and gender lens in research is recognized, many researchers, policy makers and clinicians are seeking expert advice on how best to integrate these variables into their work.

Sex & Gender: The Key to Better Research

Integrating Sex and Gender into Research

Short Term Outcomes

Contributes to a body of evidence that sex and gender differences exist relative to the effects and/or outcomes of drugs and other health interventions and health service provisions.

Medium Term Outcomes

Targeted policies, programs and healthcare delivery models based on better research.

Long Term Outcomes

Improved health of women and men, girls and boys and gender diverse people.