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A study has shown that men are prescribed more painkillers than female patients suffering from the same ailments. The study, led by Hebrew University professors Shoham Choshen Hillel and Micha Guzikevits, showed that there is a difference in the painkillers prescribed to men and women in emergency rooms to treat pain.
What does the research say?
Hebrew University researchers analyzed data from the U.S. and Israeli healthcare systems. They found that female patients are prescribed fewer pain medications than male patients, even after taking into account pain level, age, medical history, and complaints.
Even in emergency situations, painkillers are given late
Studies show that female patients are less likely to get a prescription for both opioid and non-opioid pain medications. Female patients have to wait an additional 30 minutes in the emergency department.
Why does such discrimination happen?
Researchers believe this discrimination is because women's pain is taken less seriously. Women's pain is often ignored due to long-standing stereotypes.
What impact does it have on women's health?
Women having fewer painkillers can have a serious impact on their health. It can take them longer to recover and lead to many complications.
What do the experts say?
“Our research shows that there is a disturbing bias in the way women’s pain is measured and treated in emergency care,” said Shoham Chosson Hillel, a professor at Hebrew University. “This research highlights an important issue. Women should receive the same pain medications as men.”