Enhancing Women’s Health: Focus on Diabetes and PCOS

Women’s health has long been under-researched and undervalued, leaving many without the care they need at critical points in their lives. From puberty to menopause and beyond, women face unique health challenges.

These can further increase the risk of diabetes and other chronic conditions or add complexity for those living with diabetes.

“As a dietitian, I see firsthand how many women receive suboptimal care, often unaware of the services that could support them.” Dr. Stephanie Cowan, Monash Centre for Health Research & implementation

That’s why my research is dedicated to raising awareness of diabetes risk among women and improving the services available to them—because every woman deserves access to the best possible care for her health and future.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a female reproductive condition that is underdiagnosed and poorly managed within the healthcare system.

Women with PCOS are four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, regardless of their body size. New international guidelines now emphasise the need for regular type 2 diabetes screening and proactive prevention strategies for all women with PCOS – ensuring they receive the care they need to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

Our research aims to bridge this gap between guidelines and clinical programs. We work within real health systems to make direct changes that have an immediate and meaningful impact on care.

Our focus is to identify areas for improvement and allow for better referral pathways – ensuring more women with PCOS receive the support they need.

This research sets a new standard for inclusive, community-based women’s health programs, made possible with funding from Diabetes Victoria.

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