RANTube 111d ago

Women are the backbone of healthcare in many households. But are they empowered to make the decisions that protect family health? As we commemorate International Women’s Day and Women’s Month, this episode of AMR Unplugged explores an often-overlooked issue: the connection between gender roles and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In many African homes, women are the primary caregivers. They are the first to respond when a child, partner, or family member becomes ill. From managing medication to deciding when someone should seek care, women play a critical role in everyday health decisions. Yet despite carrying this responsibility, many women do not always have the financial resources or final decision-making power needed to access professional healthcare. These realities can lead to practices such as: • Sharing leftover antibiotics • Self-prescribing medication • Using antibiotics “just in case” • Stopping treatment early All of which contribute to the growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Episode 8 of the AMR Unplugged Podcast, Musonda Millapo speaks with Natasha Kaputula, Gender Associate at ReAct Africa, about how gender dynamics influence healthcare decisions — and why empowering women while engaging men is essential to protecting families and communities. The conversation explores: ✔ Why women often become the “household doctors” ✔ Barriers women face when seeking professional healthcare ✔ The risks of antibiotic misuse within households ✔ The threat AMR poses to maternal and newborn health ✔ Why gender-responsive solutions are critical in the fight against AMR During Women’s Month, this episode highlights an important message: empowering women with knowledge, resources, and decision-making power can strengthen the fight against antimicrobial resistance. ⸻ 🎧 Listen to the full episode and join the conversation. If you enjoyed this episode: 👍 Like the video 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on antimicrobial resistance, public health, and One Health in Africa