Blog of Olga Tzortzatou Nanopoulou, SI Representative to the UN in Geneva.
On November 21, 2024, the 14th Global Forum on Health Promotion, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), took place on the newly launched WHO Global Health Promotion Hub. This virtual platform is designed to enhance global collaboration in health promotion and noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention by facilitating networking, resource sharing, and participation in events. The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and advocates to discuss innovative solutions to pressing health challenges. Among the presentations, two stood out for their focus on young girls and pregnant women, exploring how media and digital tools impact their well-being and empowerment.
The meeting underscored the power of innovation in addressing health challenges faced by girls and women and brought attention to the harmful effects of media on young girls’ mental health and the importance of promoting healthier self-image through media literacy and collaboration. It also demonstrated how digital tools can revolutionise maternal healthcare by enhancing access, empowering women, and addressing privacy concerns.
The Impact of Media
More specifically, one research project from Canada highlighted the influence of media on young girls’ self-image, often with concerning consequences. The prevalence of unrealistic beauty standards and idealised lifestyles on social media has led many young girls to develop mental health issues related to their self-image. This exposure frequently results in feelings of inadequacy, heightened anxiety, and, in severe cases, depression. The same study emphasised the urgent need for intervention, by educating young girls and their families about media literacy something can help build resilience, encourage more positive self-perceptions and promote critical thinking. Experts called for greater collaboration between educators, policymakers, and media companies to foster healthier representations of women and girls, aiming to reduce the negative mental health effects caused by these unattainable standards.
Digital Empowerment
Another powerful presentation, based on research conducted in Cameroon, showcased how innovative digital tools can improve healthcare access for pregnant women and strengthen connections between women, families, and health systems. Pregnant women in many regions face significant barriers, including limited access to timely medical care and accurate health information. These challenges are compounded by societal stigma, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. Digital health applications tailored for pregnant women address these gaps by providing personalised medical advice, educational resources, and timely health updates. These tools empower women to manage their health while involving family members, fostering a collective approach to maternal care. This inclusive system strengthens support networks and enhances the engagement of families in maternal health. One of the important features of these digital initiatives is the ability to store and transfer medical information securely. This ensures continuity of care, allowing medical records to follow a woman across different healthcare facilities. Such accessibility improves healthcare providers’ ability to make timely and informed decisions, ultimately reducing risks to both mothers and their babies. In addition, in some regions, early pregnancy announcements carry social stigma, causing many women to delay or avoid seeking medical care. This reluctance can lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and the child. The digital tools developed in Cameroon prioritise privacy and discretion, enabling women to access essential medical care and advice without fear of exposure or judgment.
Conclusion
These presentations reaffirm the importance of global collaboration in creating equitable and inclusive health solutions. Achieving universal health coverage depends on leveraging digital technologies to revolutionise how health data is collected and utilised, paving the way for more equitable, rights-focused health policies and accessible primary health care services. By leveraging technology, education, and community-driven approaches, we can ensure that every girl and woman can live a healthier, more empowered life. The forum highlighted that addressing these challenges requires collective action across sectors and regions, fostering hope for a more equitable future.