Finalist
Evidence for Every Body: Advancing Equity Through Inclusive Medicine
Summary of work
Women’s health remains systematically under‑prioritised across the pharmaceutical and medical communications landscape, with under‑representation of women in clinical trials and inconsistent application of sex‑ and gender‑sensitive scientific standards such as the SAGER (Sex and Gender Equity in Research) guidelines. This results in missed insights/weaker evidence, and tangible disparities in diagnosis, treatment and long‑term outcomes for women. Despite growing recognition of the gender health gap, few organisations have addressed this with scientific rigour or cross‑sector collaboration; this has shaped both the founding of The Salve and our commitment as a Certified B Corporation.
A central pillar of our 2025 business objectives was to catalyse measurable improvements in how sex and gender differences are researched, communicated and valued. We established the first industry‑specific benchmark of SAGER adherence, reframed inclusive analysis as a marker of scientific quality rather than a DEI initiative, and mobilised partners to drive standard setting. Through high‑credibility dissemination, condition‑level evidence synthesis, and health‑system implementation, we translated insight into meaningful action for pharma, med comms, patient organisations and the NHS.
The result has been early signs of sector‑wide momentum, with new collaborative infrastructures established, demand for practical tools, and clear intentions from organisations to embed sex/gender analysis into future practice.
Judges’ comments
The submission from The Salve Health was really smart and identified a real-world problem. Its great strength was that DE&I was clear and the judges applaud the aims. They look forward to seeing the next steps.
