Key Takeaways
- Research suggests that women's midlife health issues have historically received a very small share of private healthcare funding.
- Major philanthropic foundations and private investors are directing new capital toward women's health research and care platforms.
- Data indicates that midlife women frequently report concerns about body composition changes, such as muscle loss and weight changes, during biological transitions.
What the Source Says
A report produced by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group indicates that women’s health captures 6% of the $2.9 trillion in total private healthcare investment. Conditions such as menopause, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome collectively receive less than 2% of private healthcare funding. Research from the McKinsey Health Institute suggests that women spend an average of nine years in poor health—representing 25% more time in poor health than men. The institute estimates that closing this gap could add at least $1 trillion annually to the global economy by 2040.
Financial support for women's health research is changing. The Gates Foundation pledged $2.5 billion between 2025 and 2030 for research focused on women's health. Additionally, Melinda French Gates directed funds through Pivotal to support research on conditions affecting middle-aged women, and private equity investments in women's health startups reached $1.55 billion in 2025.
Observations from healthcare figures highlight the gaps in care. Nurse Kelly Yamamoto notes that cultural expectations often lead women to put their health issues behind family and career obligations. Addressing midlife transitions, Ally Tam Tumasova, co-founder of Respin Health alongside Halle Berry, explains that midlife healthcare presents a data challenge. Tumasova states that women using the platform identified body-composition changes, including weight gain and muscle loss, as leading concerns during menopause.
Practical Notes
Navigating midlife biological transitions involves understanding individual health needs and available options. Specific medical treatment guidelines and prescription information are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Because health needs vary for every individual, you should always talk to your doctor to discuss any medical concerns or personalized health strategies.
Source: senior health nutrition wellness study - BingNews · Published October 08, 2026 · Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making health decisions.