The Effect of Popular Culture on the Medicalization of Women’s Health

Abstract

Context: In parallel with the rapidly advancing technology and progress in modern medicine, along with the influence of popular culture on individuals’ body perception, the concept of medicalization has come into the spotlight. The increasing use and impact of popular culture through media have undeniably contributed to the rise in medicalization rates in both women and men. Evidence Acquisition: This study relied on scientific research data to support the topic. The literature review was conducted to investigate the effects of medicalization on women and men under the influence of popular culture. Research articles and reliable sources were examined. Results: According to research findings, popular culture propagated through media significantly affects women’s body perception. The spread of popular culture, where media plays a crucial role, leads to the formation of different perceptions about women’s bodies and attributes to certain diseases related to women’s different life stages. This contributes to the widespread prevalence of medicalization among women. Conclusions: Considering the role of popular culture in making medical decisions and enhancing societal awareness, healthcare professionals and media organizations should take an active part in positively shaping the impact of popular culture on medicalization and helping society make more informed decisions.