Women make up 49.6% of the global population, yet biological sex is unequally represented across the life science ecosystem, from inception to market. Though numerous genetic and biological differences are well-known between the sexes for a multitude of chronic conditions and diseases, disparities exist: in basic research, with the use of predominantly male animal testing; in clinical research, where trials don’t always include equal representation; and in fewer investments made in female-led and female-oriented companies, despite the fact that the femtech / women’s health market holds massive potential with an expected growth to $60B by 2027.

In addition, terminologies like femtech (coined by Denmark’s own women’s health start-up founder, Ida Tin) and women’s health are niched, seen as representing only reproductive science and technologies. In actuality, these terms represent all conditions that are unique to, disproportionately impact, or impact the female sex differently and include drugs, devices, consumer products, softwares, and apps.

This session is the challenge to our industry, innovators, and investors: let’s treat women’s health as more than a niche category and put equal time, resources, and money where half our population exists. It’s time we reproduce our efforts for the other 50%, for the benefit of all 100.