Incorporating feminist narratives in health marketing

Incorporating feminist narratives in health marketing

For decades, companies have used feminist language to promote their products, incorporating feminist rhetoric about women’s rights against market intervention that is unsupported by evidence on empowerment and women’s health. This marketing strategy appears to position these companies as socially progressive champions of women’s health, but they are not tested by unproven and potentially harmful tests. It is often used to sell medicines and treatments. This trend resonates not only in the broader commercial context, but also in the field of women’s health advocacy.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Testing and Feminist Rhetoric

One example of this trend is the marketing of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) tests. The test is often promoted with feminist rhetoric promising empowerment. However, it is important to note that AMH testing has no proven benefit outside of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Unfortunately, many women may not be aware of this limitation, which can lead to overuse of testing, unnecessary stress, and medical intervention.

Breast Density Notice: Right to Know?

Another example is breast density notifications. The idea that women claim a right to know their breast density seems consistent with feminist health advocacy, but it misses an important point. There is a lack of solid evidence that knowing your breast density can prevent breast cancer deaths. This can lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment, which can do more harm than good.

Demanding transparency and balanced information

These examples highlight the urgent need for transparency in women’s health advocacy, scrutiny of conflicts of interest, and the availability of balanced information based on high-quality scientific evidence. Researchers from the University of Sydney and other institutions have spoken out on the issue, warning that feminist health narratives are being used for commercial purposes to promote new technologies, tests and treatments without evidence. are doing. This can harm women through inappropriate medicalization, overdiagnosis, and overtreatment.

A plea for further vigilance

The misuse of feminist narratives in health marketing highlights the need for greater vigilance against simplistic health messages. Health professionals and governments are called on to ensure that women have access to clear, balanced information based on high-quality scientific evidence. This is particularly important in the context of global movements to raise awareness of women’s health, which can be hijacked by vested commercial interests.

Protecting women’s health: The role of advocacy coalitions

But not everything is gloomy. The success of advocacy coalitions that involve multiple groups united around a common goal is a ray of hope. Such partnerships can play a vital role in protecting and improving all aspects of women’s health. These help offset the influence of commercial interests, promote evidence-based health care, and ensure that women’s health advocacy is truly aligned with the principles of empowerment and rights that form the foundation of feminism. Masu.