Research

Research studies help improve knowledge and understanding to inform policy and program development to address Women Veterans’ health and well-being needs. This gender and diversity glossary is a helpful resource for understanding key terms used in the research.


This paper, based on 41-years of data, is the first time cancer incidence has been reported for both male and female CAF personnel and Veterans. The study found that those groups had lower or similar risk compared to their Canadian counterparts.

Published: 2025

This research explores finding from a 2022 survey on Veteran and health and well-being after service and provides data on female Veterans related to physical and mental health, employment, and finances.

Published: 2024

The 2023 Veterans’ Well-being Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is a tool to support the health and well-being of Canadian Veterans and highlighted the need to address barriers and improve health equity for women Veterans.

Published: 2024

New Census data provides a snapshot of women+ Veterans in Canada, including age, marital status, income levels, and regional distribution.

Published: 2024

A long-term review exploring factors that increase the risk of homelessness among female Veterans, including trauma, health, racism, and gender discrimination.

Published: 2023

Income data shows differences for female Veterans, including an 18.5 per cent drop in income after release, with earnings from employment cut by more than half.

Published: 2021

Comparisons in this study reveal that female Veterans use healthcare services more than other Canadians, especially for mental health.

Published: 2021

A national effort is underway to prevent military sexual misconduct which has disproportionately affected female-identifying members.

Published: 2021

This research explores life after service, providing data on female Veterans related to health, social, and economic status.

Published: 2020

Comparisons show female Veterans experience more physical and mental health issues than both male Veterans and other Canadian women.

Published: 2020

Female Veterans have a higher suicide risk than other Canadian women, though lower than male Veterans, with no change in risk across age groups.

Published: 2019

This report compares male and female Veterans across more than 40 indicators of well-being, exposing some barriers women face both during and after service.

Published: 2018

Female and male Veterans face different challenges after release, with female Veterans more likely to face health challenges, income loss, and caregiving responsibilities.

Published: 2018


Other research

Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs

Statistics Canada

Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health