Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Women, Children, and Adolescent Health: A Global Perspective

Course Description

The health of women, children & adolescents (WCA) globally is acknowledged to be inextricably linked to societal wellbeing and prosperity. Nevertheless, they remain underserved and disproportionately affected by illness, economic poverty and political instability. These are reflected in high morbidity and mortality rates as well as in diminished access to health and social services depending on geography or context. There are also within-group inequities mediated by racism, migration, conflict and socio-economic differences, amongst other determinants, that have an effect on women, children, and adolescent health.

This course will provide an overview of several pressing issues related to women, children, and adolescent’s health drawing on global and Canadian contexts (i.e a glocal perspective). Using a critical lens that draws from intersectionality, decolonialism and black feminist theory, our course will consider key dimensions (including equity, gender) and social, political and economic determinants of health. We will discuss policies, programs and strategic events that have shaped (in)action in WCA health. By mapping the role of local and international agendas on pre-defined priority issues (e.g. sexual rights and reproductive health, gender based violence), each week will encourage students to question how health priorities for women, children, and adolescents are determined.

Classes will adopt a participatory format and will include discussions on examples from different regions of the world, including Canada. Students are encouraged to engage with the prescribed reading and contribute to the discussions drawing from their experiences and knowledge. Class format will include (guest) lectures, discussions on readings and current topics relevant to the course, presentations and group work or breakout sessions.

Course Objectives

1. To analyse and critique the definitions and framings of Women, Children and Adolescent health;
2. To deepen understanding of the major social, political and economic determinants of Women, Children and Adolescent health;
3. To explore the dynamics and challenges surrounding the design and delivery of programs on women, children and adolescent health in global and Canadian contexts;
4. To apply a critical intersectional lens to analysing topical issues such as reproductive maternal, neonatal and child health (RMNCH), adolescent health, mental health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and Infectious Diseases; and
5. To understand the motivations and implications of Canada’s role in the global agenda for women and child health.

Methods of Assessment

Reflective Paper	20%
Major Essay	50%
Class Presentation	25%
Particpiation	5%