Representing Sex and Gender Information in Biomedical Research

In medicine and biomedical research, sex- and gender-related aspects are ubiquitous. If not considered adequately, a lower quality of research data can be expected together with a lower generalizability of study results with real-world settings. From a translational perspective, a lack of sex- and gender-sensitivity in acquired data can have negative implications for diagnosis, treatment (outcome and side effects), and risk prediction. To establish improved recognition and reward settings we set out to develop a pilot of systemic sex and gender awareness in a German medical faculty, with actions such as implementing equality in routine clinical practice and research, as well as in scientific practice (incl. science education). We believe that the change of culture will have a positive effect on research outcomes, lead to a rethinking in the scientific domain, foster sex- and gender-related clinical studies, and influence the design of good scientific practices.