PUBLIC HEALTH: LINK BETWEEN SEX DISCRIMINATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS EXAMINED.

• Position: Brief article

The report proposes that a section on the differences between men and women be introduced into the curriculum for all medical personnel. For example knowledge of support techniques is essential when dealing with women who are victims of violence. Responding to comments in the report claiming that this was not always the case, MEPs said that all public health services should guarantee a quality service without discrimination both in terms of health and social security. The rapporteur made reference to a study conducted in a Stockholm hospital where it was established that if women were to receive the same level of treatment as men, then resources dedicated to women would have to increase by 61% and if the level of treatment given to women was to become the norm, hospital costs would drop by 33%.

The report also advocated further measures to fight breast cancer. Mammograms are widely used in nine member states (Belgium, Finland, France, Spain, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden, Hungary and the UK) in line with EU guidelines. The Women's Rights Committee has called on all member...