In general, health is recognized around the world as an important part of individual and national development and economic well-being.
One cannot deny that Africa is the region of the globe with the most serious health challenges, yet the region lacks adequate healthcare, particularly for women.
Women have distinct healthcare demands that go beyond pregnancy and reproduction, such as cardiovascular health, which manifests differently in men and women. Yet, technology has the potential to improve the health of African women.
One of the primary issues in many African countries, particularly in rural regions, is a lack of proper healthcare facilities and skilled healthcare staff.
Women may find it difficult to obtain basic healthcare services like prenatal care, family planning, and immunizations as a result of this.
Another barrier to getting healthcare is geographical proximity, but with technology, access to healthcare may be quick, with quick responses from skilled healthcare staff.
How technology can create an impact
There are several ways in which technology can be used to impact the health of women in Africa:
Mobile Health (mHealth)
Apps are a new and rapidly growing technology. Women can use mHealth apps to get health information, track menstrual cycles, get prescription reminders, and interact with healthcare providers.
In Tanzania, for instance, the Wazazi Nipendeni app provides pregnant women with weekly pregnancy updates and connects them with healthcare specialists.
Another example is Flo and Tracker, apps that assist women track their menstrual cycle while also providing healthcare suggestions.
Telemedicine
This is another technology that has the potential to improve women’s health in Africa. Telemedicine can connect women in outlying places with healthcare providers.
This is especially useful for women who live in places with limited access to healthcare. Women can receive medical advice, consultations, and diagnoses from healthcare specialists via telemedicine without having to travel significant distances. One example is the Reliance app, which allows women to chat with doctors and obtain prescriptions.
Wearable devices
These are already widely used, are another technology that might be studied for women’s health in Africa. Fitness trackers and smartwatches, for example, can be used to measure health indicators such as heart rate and activity levels. These devices are especially beneficial for ladies who want to track their fitness goals and overall health.
Women now have access to online Health Communities thanks to advances in technology. Online health groups can provide a safe space for women to interact with other women and share their experiences.
These networks can provide a safe environment for women to express concerns, receive advice, and receive support.
Women’s health in Africa should be improved through digital education programs for women in Africa.
Women can benefit from digital education programs that provide knowledge on a variety of health areas, including maternity health, sexual and reproductive health, and nutrition.
These programs, which can be accessed via smartphones or computers, can be adjusted to the specific needs of women in various African locations.
These are just a few instances of how technology may improve the health of African women. We can contribute to improving the health outcomes of women across the continent by using the power of technology.
