Despite being half the population, women are still dramatically underrepresented in health research, diagnostics, and treatment development. This session will confront the longstanding gaps in women’s health and explore how leaders across life sciences and health sectors can work together to close them. From reproductive and hormonal health to chronic conditions uniquely affecting women, there are enormous unmet needs and untapped opportunities for innovation.

Taking us on a journey from past to future, the session begins with the exhibition Ongezien from Rijksmuseum Boerhaave, which sheds light on historical inequalities in medicine. From there, we move to the present, as a leading pharmaceutical company shares how it is addressing diversity and inclusion in clinical trials today. Looking ahead, the session will spotlight the ambitions of the newly established Netherlands Women’s Health Research & Innovation Center, outlining a vision for a more equitable and inclusive future in health research and care.