Every year, 585,000 women die due to pregnancy-related complications. It's a statistic that makes Jean Chamberlain cringe.

But with McMaster's expertise, it's possible to reduce these numbers, she says. “McMaster has always had a strong voice in international health. There are so many people here who have ideas on how we can be involved on a more personal level.”

That's one reason the assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at McMaster has organized the fourth annual International Women's Health Symposium Friday, Nov. 8 at the Royal Botanical Gardens, in Burlington.

“The intent of the symposium is to bring people together with like-minded ideas,” she says. “It gives people practical suggestions on how to move forward and participate in women's health.”

Called International Women's Health: Making a Difference, the conference will feature:

• Sally Armstrong, Canadian journalist and author, who will speak about women in conflict;
• Audrey McLaughlin, former federal NDP leader, will discuss the politics of women's health care from an international perspective;
• John Sellors, senior medical adviser of reproductive health in Seattle, Washington, will discuss developing technology and measuring impact in low resource settings;
• Florence Mirembe, chair of obstetrics/gynecology at Makerere University in Uganda, will speak on the challenges and victories of Ugandan Women living with HIV/AIDS;
• Yves Berjevin, chief of health at UNICEF New York, will discuss how UNICEF and multinational organizations make a difference in international women's health;
• Sonia Anand, chair of women's health at McMaster University, will speak on how poor health takes years off many women's lives.

The day-long conference is for health care professionals and students, and is open to the public. The cost is $75 and includes lunch.

For information, contact McMaster's continuing education program at 905-525-9140 ext. 22671.