Women's Health in Saudi Arabia - Dawn of a New Era

Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in women's healthcare over the past decade, enhancing awareness, education, access to medical services, maternal well-being, and workforce participation, aligning with the United Nations' sustainable development goals. The Ministry of Health (MoH) initiated the Healthcare Transformation Program (HTM) in 2016 as part of Saudi Vision 2030 to create a universal and integrated healthcare system. Key initiatives include free breast cancer screenings or mammogram facilities for all women above the age of 40. The Seha Virtual Hospital also provides AI-powered solutions for breast cancer screening.

Upcoming Healthcare Segments

Femtech is a rapidly growing segment within women’s healthcare in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Projected to reach USD 3.8 billion by 2031, this innovative sector harnesses digital solutions to address various women’s health needs, including menstrual, reproductive, pregnancy, and menopause-related issues. Additionally, the wellness segment is gaining momentum, with brands like Kayanee leading the way. Kayanee offers a holistic approach to women’s health by integrating fitness, nutrition, personal care, healthy eating, and mental well-being into its offerings. This comprehensive focus reflects a growing recognition of the importance of overall wellness in enhancing women’s health outcomes.

Influential Women in the Healthcare Sector

Dr. Fatimah Alhamlan, a Scientist and Consultant at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH & RC), has set up the Rofaida Women’s Health Organization. Rofaida provides Saudi women with knowledge, skills, and resources to make informed decisions and take ownership of their health. Another key advocate for women’s health in Saudi Arabia is Dr. Maha Al-Mozaini, an Infectious Diseases Specialist at KFSH & RC. As one of the few Saudi researchers in HIV-1, she established the kingdom’s first HIV/AIDS laboratory. She actively leads health-related projects through the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority, aligning with Vision 2030. Notably, 99% of Dr. Al-Mozaini’s team consists of women, highlighting the growing representation of women in Saudi healthcare research.

Conclusion

Measures undertaken as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 program have significantly improved key healthcare metrics, including a 36% decline in the maternal mortality rate (MMR) from 25 to 16 per 100,000 live births. Saudi Arabia now ranks 44th in the Hologic Global Women's Health Index, reflecting advancements in preventive care, mental health, and maternal services. With initiatives like the Women's Health Fellowship and platforms such as the Global Health Exhibition, Saudi women are not only benefiting from these reforms but actively shaping the future of healthcare in the Kingdom.