What is the sex and gender bias in biomedical research, and why does it matter?

Sex and gender shape our health in ways that are biological, social, and personal.

They influence how diseases appear, how treatments work, and how symptoms are understood.

With differences like these, it makes sense that medical research should reflect the diversity of the people it’s for.

But this isn’t always the case.

Studies show that approximately two-thirds of participants in early-stage clinical trials are males. 

And, only 4% of clinical trials over the past decade allowed the inclusion of pregnant women. 

This has led to gaps in understanding and in care.

Women are 50% more likely to have a heart attack misdiagnosed, because symptoms were studied in men. 

And research has shown that women are 50–75% more likely to have adverse drug reactions than men. 

Meanwhile, men have a lifespan four years shorter than women and are less likely to access healthcare services. 

Transgender and gender diverse people are often excluded altogether, meaning we have limited insights into their health. 

But the good news is: we can improve this. 

By recognising sex and gender at every stage of health and medicine, from research to care and education, we can reflect the true population of Australia. 

Let’s work towards better health. For all people.

• 4% of trials include pregnant women 
• Women 50% more likely to be misdiagnosed heart attacks
• The male lifespan is four years less than that of women  
• Men are less likely to access healthcare in Australia 
• Women are 50–75% more likely to have adverse drug reactions than men