Gender Differences in the Prevalence and Patterns of Diseases in Kerala, India

When we examine the extent of diseases affected in Kerala, with a specific focus on gender, a higher incidence of gender related health disparity in Kerala society, with females being more deprived compared to their male counter parts. These are clearly visible in the case of outcome indicators like the type of ailments they are suffering and its extent. The elderly among the females suffer more compared to males. A wide variation in morbidity rate and diseases among gender can be seen in Kerala. Females are more prone in these cases. As far as gender gap in morbidity is concerned, it is comparatively lower in Kerala when compared to All India. There is a need for comprehensive policy conceptualization and programme implementation for women in Kerala to achieve equal health status in the near future. The gender inequality in health status can be overcome through improving some of the major socio-economic variables like education, decision making power, economic participation etc. Programmes to achieve gender equality should not only focus on the provision of equal or greater opportunities for women but should also concentrate on achieving equality in gender outcomes. To accomplish this, all plans and projects need to be examined through a gender lens.