Prescription for Change 2025

Quick win: Reporting in scientific publications BOX 3 Report sex-disaggregated data in scientific publications to improve transparency on insights. Implementing the SAGER guidelines in scientific journals will ensure that sex differences are properly considered and reported. These changes are relatively easy to implement and a quick win. By improving accountability in research, it will lead to more transparent and complete reporting of findings and encourage industry-wide adoption of those practices. Laying a stronger foundation for sex-specific research is an essential first step for meaningful progress. It begins with making sure women are properly and widely included in clinical trials and then continues with collecting comprehensive sex- specific data. With this foundation in place, clinical guidelines can be refined, drug labelling updated and essential sex-specific information integrated into product inserts and leaflets. Finally, quick- win strategies such as implementing the SAGER guidelines in scientific journals will help accelerate the adoption of these changes, leading to better transparency and outcomes in women’s health. To truly advance women’s health in Africa and globally, sex-specific data must be non-negotiable – from clinical trials to journal publications. Holding the scientific ecosystem accountable is a critical step towards inclusive, evidence- based care that reflects the realities of women’s lives. Fara Ndiaye, Co-Founder and Deputy Executive Director, Speak Up Africa Prescription for Change: Policy Recommendations for Women’s Health Research 21