Where Are Women Healthiest? Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses Top-Ranked Countries for Women's Health

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women's health varies greatly depending on location. Some countries prioritize a heavier body type, while others believe a healthy woman avoids sunlight at all costs. However, Marla Ahlgrimm says true health is about making daily choices that benefit your body. 

 

But do some countries make that easier for women? The answer: yes. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, several countries consistently rank high in women's health, including Switzerland, Sweden, Japan, Iceland, Italy, and Spain. 

 

What do these places have in common? Marla Ahlgrimm says they are all high-income countries with strong overall healthcare systems. They offer universal access to preventative care, screenings, and treatment for various health issues, including pregnancy and hormone-related concerns specific to women. They also utilize advanced medical technology and, importantly, focus on maternal health, including pre- and postnatal care. Countries like Latvia prioritize preventative care, encouraging women to get tested for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Marla Ahlgrimm says these high-ranking countries also promote healthy eating, mental well-being, and physical activity initiatives. 

Health and Socioeconomics 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm also reports that women in these countries with higher socioeconomic status typically report fewer health problems. A higher income and social status typically mean a woman has greater access to healthcare. While lower-income women may lack insurance or the financial stability to seek healthcare when needed, higher-income women do. 

 

Women living in lower-income areas, war-torn regions, and areas that don't prioritize women's health generally have poorer health outcomes. Afghanistan, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and Yemen are examples of countries with higher risks for women's health. For instance, Afghanistan and South Sudan are war-torn and have extremely weak healthcare infrastructure. They also severely restrict women's rights. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that in such areas, women tend to have higher maternal mortality rates. Specifically, South Sudan has the highest global rate with approximately 1223 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. In contrast, Nordic countries like Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Finland have a maternal mortality rate of about two per 100,000 live births. 

 

A Global Effort 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm says that while each country is ultimately responsible for the health of its women, the World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in promoting and advocating for global women's health. WHO works to reduce mortality rates, for example, by promoting access to skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care. It also offers information on safe birthing practices and motherhood. Furthermore, the World Health Organization champions sexual and reproductive health rights across the globe. 

 

The US and Women's Health 

 

The United States, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, has both strengths and weaknesses compared to other developed nations. While the US boasts some of the most advanced medical technologies available, access to this healthcare isn't universal. However, many people do have access to healthcare facilities, and thanks to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), no one can be denied emergency care. 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm concludes by saying there's still significant progress to be made in women's health around the world. But every day brings us closer to a future where women of all ages and in all countries can enjoy better health.