WOMEN’S HEALTH GAP

PRELIMS BITS

The World Economic Forum (WEF) and McKinsey Health Institute have released a report highlighting the economic and societal potential of closing the women’s health gap. This gap refers to the disparity between women’s and men’s health, which impacts women’s productivity and well-being.

Key Findings:

• Women’s Health Disparity: Women experience 25% more of their lives in poor health compared to men.
• 9 Key Health Conditions: These conditions contribute to one-third of the health gap. They include:
  • Lifespan-related conditions: Such as cervical & breast cancer, maternal hypertensive disorders, and post-partum hemorrhage.
  • Health span-related conditions: Including menopause & perimenopause, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and migraine.

Potential Impact of Closing the Health Gap:

• Closing the health gap could generate $1 trillion in annual global GDP by 2040.
• It could also reclaim 75 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) annually.

Structural Challenges:

• Global health and social systems were not designed with women’s health in mind, contributing to the existing gap.
• Public, private, and social sector stakeholders must drive changes to close this gap and unlock the full potential of women, enhancing productivity and improving quality of life.