Global Report Unveils Strategies for Women's Blood Care: A Call to Action for Equitable and Timely Hematological Care
The recent publication in The Lancet Haematology, led by Dr. Bethany Samuelson Bannow, highlights a critical issue in women's health: the inequities and delays in diagnosis and treatment of hematological conditions, particularly those related to bleeding and clotting disorders. This comprehensive report, presented at the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) 2026 Congress, emphasizes the need for urgent action to address these disparities and improve outcomes for women and girls worldwide.
A Global Health Disparity
Dr. Samuelson Bannow, director of Classical Hematology at Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, states, "Improving hematological care for women of all ages represents one of the clearest opportunities to strengthen health outcomes globally." The report reveals a stark reality: women and girls face higher rates of anemia, delayed diagnoses, undertreatment, and complications from bleeding and clotting disorders, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. This is further exacerbated by the underrepresentation of women in clinical trials and the neglect of female-specific health issues in research, policy, and care delivery.
The Delay in Diagnosing Bleeding Disorders
One of the most alarming findings is the significant delay in diagnosing bleeding disorders. On average, women wait 14 to 16 years for a diagnosis, compared to about two years for men. This delay has profound implications, as it can lead to severe complications and a lack of timely treatment. The report calls for immediate action to reduce this delay, emphasizing the importance of routine menstrual health assessments and the broader use of bleeding assessment tools.
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: A Central Issue
Heavy menstrual bleeding, affecting up to one in three women, is often the first sign of an inherited bleeding disorder. Yet, it is frequently dismissed or inadequately treated. The report emphasizes the need for universal screening for heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency, as well as stronger referral pathways to ensure early recognition and care. The commission sets an ambitious goal to reduce the average time from symptom onset to diagnosis for women and girls with bleeding disorders to less than 24 months by 2035, a target achievable through the integration of screening recommendations into major guidelines and clinician education.
Personalized Thrombosis Care and Global Action
The report also highlights the need for more personalized thrombosis care during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It calls for immediate action to close gender gaps in hematological health, ensuring equitable, evidence-based care worldwide. Key recommendations include faster diagnosis of bleeding disorders, universal screening for heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency, standardized postpartum hemorrhage protocols, and more personalized thrombosis care during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
A Call for Comprehensive Action
The authors emphasize the need for updated clinical guidelines, greater inclusion of women in research, targeted education and prevention programs, and stronger investment in women's health. Dr. Samuelson Bannow states, "The evidence is clear that meaningful progress is possible. With coordinated action across clinical care, research, and education, we can deliver more timely, effective, and equitable hematology care for women and girls around the world."
In conclusion, this report serves as a wake-up call, urging the global healthcare community to address the disparities in women's hematological care. By implementing the strategies outlined, we can work towards a future where women and girls receive timely, equitable, and effective treatment for bleeding and clotting disorders, ultimately improving their overall health and well-being.
