Lowered life expectancy for American women could have ripple effect in society

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A long history of gender imbalance in medical research further complicates obtaining data specific to women's health.

A recent study published in the journal Health Affairs this week shows a decline in life expectancy for American women.  Scientists still aren’t sure of the causes, and the need for more data is further complicated by the long history of gender imbalance in medical research.

Dr. Carmen Green,  vice president for health equity and inclusion at University of Michigan Health Systems, discusses the study, as well as the climate for medical research focused on women, minorities and the elderly.