By Shruti Menon Seeboo
The McKinsey Health Institute’s recent findings have illuminated a stark reality: women’s health, globally, does not receive the priority it deserves. Despite women living longer than men, they spend 25 percent more time in poor health, averaging nine years of diminished well-being. This gap not only impacts individual lives but also carries significant economic implications. Closing this gap could lead to seven additional days of healthy living for each woman annually, add $1 trillion to the global economy by 2040, and yield $3 in economic growth for every $1 invested in women’s health. Dr. Meagan Lewis Gujadhur, a Health Coach at LetsBe, provides crucial insights into how we can address these disparities and empower women to take control of their health.
The McKinsey report highlights significant barriers preventing women from prioritising their health. Dr. Lewis Gujadhur observes, “It goes without saying that a woman’s role in society has evolved and changed. That being said, there remain expectations on her, rightly or wrongly. Balance between work and home is increasingly difficult as demands in workplace have risen but home demands remain the same.” She emphasises the challenge of finding time for self-care, stating, “I maintain that there never will be time. We have to make time to prioritize our fitness and wellbeing in the full faith that this has a positive impact that goes beyond the woman but to her family and workplace too.” This proactive approach is essential for women to reclaim their well-being. The modern woman juggles multiple roles—professional, caregiver, and community member—and often places her own needs last. Recognising the importance of self-care as a foundational element for overall well-being is crucial, not just for individual health, but for the health of the entire family and community.
A UK study revealed that women aged 40-50 exercise more frequently than those in their 20s. Dr. Lewis Gujadhur explains this shift by noting, “Women in the 40-50 age bracket may have already experienced a health scare that encourages them to take action in the form of a regular exercise regimen. In the 20’s there is still that feeling of invincibility for many.” She advocates for early investment in fitness, viewing it as a “muscle bank.” “If we invest from a young age, we enjoy good return on our health and strength investment and it is much easier to continue in this discipline if its engrained for years. It is also good for the family to see this emulate.” This early investment is not just about physical health; it’s about building resilience and establishing habits that support long-term well-being. Encouraging young women to view fitness as a lifelong commitment rather than a temporary fix is crucial for fostering sustainable health habits.
Addressing the benefits of exercise for women approaching perimenopause, Dr. Lewis Gujadhur highlights its multifaceted impact. “Exercise is beneficial to all age groups. The benefits it has for a woman who is perimenopausal include maintaining bone density which declines in woman around this time. Improved cardiovascular health. Oestrogen has some cardioprotective benefits, as this level reduces, women are at increased risk of stroke and myocardial infarction. Weight management is a big one as this hormonal change often causes changes in weight and most importantly can assist with mood and sleep! It’s well known the effect of exercise on serotonin levels!” This underscores the importance of tailored fitness approaches that cater to the unique physiological changes women experience at different life stages. Understanding the specific benefits of exercise during perimenopause can empower women to take proactive steps to manage symptoms and maintain their quality of life.
Corporate wellness programs often fall short in addressing women’s unique health needs. Dr. Lewis Gujadhur points out, “Unfortunately, in my limited observations at least, women’s health is still sadly seen as a bit taboo to openly talk about.” She proposes practical solutions, “It would be so beneficial for companies to ensure there are sanitary towel dispensers available in bathrooms, to have events or talks regarding vital issues like HPV, importance of PAP smears, managing menopausal symptoms and breast lump screening to name a few. It will ensure women in the workplace feel supported, understood and valued and ensure their health for years to come and not to mention foster a sense of camaraderie in female colleagues.” Creating a supportive workplace culture that openly addresses women’s health issues is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and well-being. Companies can also consider offering flexible work arrangements, childcare support, and access to mental health resources to better support their female employees.
The pressure of unrealistic fitness expectations is a significant challenge for many women. Dr. Lewis Gujadhur emphasises, “It’s a fact universally acknowledged that how a person appears physically is not a true representive of their health status. Women are designed to store fat differently to men and it differs from women to women. It’s very sad that we compare and find ourselves lacking because we are different to a media proposed “ideal”.” She advocates for intuitive movement and sustainable fitness habits, “There has to be an element of enjoyability to make it sustainable and this is up to the individual. It is essential to vary the exercise done and have at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week.” Shifting the focus from aesthetics to overall well-being requires a holistic approach that prioritises mental, emotional, and physical health. Encouraging women to embrace their bodies and celebrate their unique strengths is crucial for fostering a positive body image and promoting sustainable fitness habits.
Based on the McKinsey report and the UK study, Dr. Lewis Gujadhur outlines three practical steps women can take, she concludes saying, “Advocate for women and their health by encouraging open discussion and events about women’s health. Prioritise some time for exercise, your health shouldn’t be viewed as less important. Invest from now in a healthy diet and exercise as the ramifications go beyond you but to those you care about and your workplace.” By adopting these strategies, women can take charge of their health, bridging the existing gap and fostering a healthier, more equitable future for themselves and future generations.
