In a powerful episode of B The Way Forward, Brenda Darden Wilkerson, CEO of AnitaB.org, sits down with Dr. Brittany Barreto, host of The FemTech Focus Podcast, to confront the staggering disparities in women’s health research and funding. Despite women comprising half the population, only 4% of pharmaceutical R&D focuses on women’s health—compared to 2% solely for the prostate.
Dr. Barreto emphasizes the dire consequences: from misdiagnosed heart attacks to inadequate care for gynecological cancer survivors. FemTech is stepping up, innovating solutions beyond periods and pregnancy to address systemic gaps. Yet, male-dominated venture capital and outdated diagnostic frameworks slow progress, leaving many women without access to essential care.
FemTech is more than just a health revolution, it’s an economic one, improving workforce well-being and productivity. But it requires visibility, investment, and advocacy. Check out the podcast and tune into this episode for hard-hitting highlights on something rarely talked about. Because when women thrive, we all thrive.
Subscribe to B The Way Forward on Apple or Spotify.
Our guests contribute to this podcast in their personal capacity. The views expressed in this interview are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology or its employees (“AnitaB.org”). AnitaB.org is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of the information provided in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute legal or other professional advice or services.