Attention to differences is crucial to our health
ZonMw underscores the importance of research that contributes to good health for everyone. That requires paying close attention to the differences between people.
‘An important point of departure in research into health is that human beings differ from each other,’ says Professor Arfan Ikram, chairman of the board at ZonMw. ‘Physicians are only able to give patients the best possible treatment if they are attentive to the person in question and base their care on them. They need to know what type of care works for whom, and we are learning more and more about this. This is why research into health differences is of great importance.’ In practice, the knowledge gained is reflected in, among other things, medical guidelines, for example in the introduction of new medicines or therapies.
Half of the population
Attention to differences is especially necessary for the health of women, gender-diverse individuals, and people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Heart failure is a clear example, because it presents differently in men and women. ZonMw feels it is very important that matters such as pregnancy, gender care, ethnic background, and gender differences are researched properly and that this knowledge is available. This is the only way to provide the right care to everyone. Ikram: ‘For example, we should not forget that women make up half of the population. And ultimately this affects everyone. After all, every human being benefits from properly substantiated and customised healthcare.’
New insights needed
New knowledge and insights are especially necessary in care provision for women and gender-diverse people. This is why, at ZonMw, we are thrilled with our new programmes Women's health and Diversity-sensitive working in healthcare. For transgender care and Differences in Sex Development/Intersex, more knowledge and insights are needed to improve care and reduce waiting times in healthcare.
Ikram: ‘It is important to continue to invest in scientific research in order to prevent a situation where, in a few years time, we still don’t have any answers to pressing questions. This requires explicit attention to the differences between people. That is what we stand for!’
Opinion piece in the Volkskrant newspaper
Over 300 scientists, researchers and other experts signed an opinion piece that was published in de Volkskrant on Wednesday 19 February 2025. In the piece, they call on Dutch universities, policymakers and the government to support our researchers and ensure high-quality and inclusive healthcare for all. Ikram: ‘Our statement above leaves no room for doubt: ZonMw is on the same page.’