OWSD NIgeria National Chapter presents Women in STEM: Advancing Healthcare in Nigeria Through Research on Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

May 20, 2025

OWSD Nigeria University of Port Harcourt Branch Series of Scientific Communication: Etowa on Women in STEM: Advancing Healthcare in Nigeria Through Research on Social Determinants

Women in STEM: Advancing Healthcare in Nigeria Through Research on Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

The presentation titled "Women in STEM: Advancing Healthcare in Nigeria Through Research on Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)" sheds light on the pivotal role women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) play in transforming healthcare, particularly in low-income countries like Nigeria. It underscores how women in STEM are addressing health disparities by conducting research on the social determinants of health, which are the economic, social, and environmental factors that significantly influence health outcomes.

The presentation begins with an introduction to the concept of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), defining it as the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and how these factors contribute to health disparities. It emphasizes that to address these disparities, innovative STEM research is essential, as it allows for a deeper understanding of the complex factors that influence health outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings.

In understanding SDOH, the presentation explores key factors such as economic stability, education, access to healthcare, and the environment. These factors directly impact individuals' health, and in Nigeria, these challenges are particularly evident. The healthcare system in Nigeria is strained by inequalities that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. These inequalities are seen in the high maternal mortality rate, the prevalence of infectious diseases, and the rural-urban healthcare divide. These gaps in healthcare provision and access are deeply tied to the broader social and economic factors that affect communities.

The role of women in STEM in addressing these challenges is highlighted throughout the presentation. Female scientists and researchers are playing a transformative role in healthcare innovation, particularly by leveraging new technologies to improve healthcare access and outcomes. Despite the progress, these women often face numerous barriers, including gender discrimination, limited access to resources, and societal expectations. However, many notable women in STEM have broken through these barriers to make significant contributions to healthcare, both within Nigeria and globally.

Women-led research in STEM has led to several groundbreaking innovations aimed at addressing SDOH. For example, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare are helping to predict and manage diseases more efficiently, while telemedicine has improved access to care, especially for those in remote areas. Additionally, data analytics is being used to track and address health disparities, ensuring that interventions are more targeted and effective. These innovations demonstrate how STEM research can address the root causes of health inequalities and create sustainable solutions.

The presentation also presents case studies of female-led research initiatives that have directly improved public health outcomes. These initiatives have focused on areas such as maternal health, infectious disease prevention, and improving healthcare delivery in underserved regions. By focusing on the social determinants of health, these women have developed strategies that address not only medical needs but also the economic and social conditions that contribute to poor health.

To bridge the gap and further empower women in STEM, the presentation discusses the importance of policy support, investment in research, and mentorship. Governments and organizations must prioritize funding for women-led research and create an environment that encourages young girls to pursue STEM education. Additionally, mentorship is critical for providing guidance and opportunities to women aspiring to make an impact in healthcare research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the presentation calls for continued investment in women-led STEM research, particularly in the context of healthcare, as it holds the potential to drive lasting change in Nigeria and other low-income countries. It encourages a focus on empowering women through education, support, and opportunities to innovate, which will ultimately contribute to better healthcare systems and improved health outcomes for all. The session concludes with a call to action, urging stakeholders to actively support these efforts to bring about transformative healthcare solutions.