ULibraries Research Guides: Sex and Gender Differences Health Research (S&GDR): Home

Sex and Gender.

"Sex" refers to biological differences between females and males, including chromosomes, sex organs, and endogenous hormonal profiles. "Gender" refers to socially constructed and enacted roles and behaviors which occur in a historical and cultural context and vary across societies and over time. All individuals act in many ways that fulfill the gender expectations of their society. With continuous interaction between sex and gender, health is determined by both biology and the expression of gender. - Office of Research on Women's Health

Popular Media

60 Minutes: Drugs can affect men and women differently
Broadcast February 7, 2014 -- Differences between sexes are more pervasive than previously thought; scientists call for a re-examination of medical research, including drug dosages, based on sex.
Paula Johnson: His and hers … healthcare
Dr. Paula A.Johnson's TEDWomen 2013 talk.
She is the Executive Director of the Mary Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology and Chief of the Division of Women's Health at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) in Boston, MA.
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12:58 So, people often ask me: What can I do? And here's what I suggest: First, I suggest that you think about women's health in the same way that you think and care about other causes that are important to you. And second, and equally as important, that as a woman, you have to ask your doctor and the doctors who are caring for those who you love: Is this disease or treatment different in women? Now, this is a profound question because the answer is likely yes, but your doctor may not know the answer, at least not yet. But if you ask the question, your doctor will very likely go looking for the answer. And this is so important.... [Excerpted from the transcript]

Sex & Gender Differences Health Research Resources

Start here to review the following selected resources to learn more about sex and gender differences research and why it matters. Researchers will want to consider sex and gender differences as they learn, teach, practice and conduct research.

Office of Research on Women’s Health
ORWH works in partnership with the 27 NIH Institutes and Centers to ensure that women’s health research is part of the scientific framework at the NIH and throughout the scientific community
Women’s Health Resources
This portal includes links to health topics that affect women, news and events related to women’s health, NIH research funding and NIH priorities in women’s health
Sex and Gender Courses
The series of courses is open to the public.” CME credit can be awarded for successful completion of these courses
Clinical Anatomy, Special Issue on the Female Patient
This special issue of Clinical Anatomy focuses on the female patient. Articles can be accessed for free.
The Use of "Sex" and "Gender"
This report examines whether differences in health status be attributed to sex or gender, as well as the distinction between gender and sex.