Impact of gender on cancer care: a global and historic perspective

Whilst the majority of cancer types affect both males and females, some are gender specific, (typically those linked to reproductive organs) or have differential incidence and survival rates between males and females. In some cases, there is a biological basis for these differences, but in others, the underlying reason for these differences is sociocultural or economic. Historically in high income countries, and presently in low- and middle-income economies, women are often financially disadvantaged and disempowered, which may lead to reduced ability to access health care. In addition, social and cultural barriers may exist that may reduce women's ability, or desire, to seek timely health care. We present a narrative review of these issues with a focus on gender differences in certain key cancers, barriers to access care and strategies to improve cancer outcomes for women.