Deconstructing the gender neutrality of chronic illness and disability

Although a great deal has been written in the fields of women's health and disability/chronic illness, there is surprisingly little cross-fertilization. The dominant narrative within society orients us toward a view of chronic illness and disability that is gender neutral and devoid of social context. Examination of the ways in which chronic illness and disability are differently experienced by men and women creates a foundation upon which the implications of the dominant narrative can be explored. In this analysis, the authors find clinical, sociopolitical, and theoretical implications that derive from the traditional reluctance to consider the intersection of these fields of study. They conclude with recommendations for broadening our vision, correcting the omissions within our knowledge, and rethinking our part in contributing to inequities within society.