Alberta could generate an estimated $5.9 billion in economic benefits by 2040 through greater investment in women’s health, according to the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation, which is part of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.
Lindsay Robertson, vice-president of communications, marketing and brand for the foundation, said the estimate is based on research conducted with the McKinsey Health Institute, which found the economic opportunity totals about $37 billion across Canada, with nearly $6 billion tied to Alberta.
Robertson said the findings show women’s health extends beyond the healthcare system and has significant economic implications because healthier people are better able to participate in the workforce. She said the report identifies women’s health as both a healthcare priority and an economic opportunity while highlighting Alberta’s potential to become a national leader through stronger research, innovation and investment.
She said women’s health research currently receives an average of just 3.4 per cent of research grants in Alberta, despite women representing half the population. Increasing investment in research, data collection and innovation would help close longstanding gaps in diagnosis and treatment, she added.
Robertson identified hormonal health and menopause as major near-term priorities, noting many women experience symptoms during the highest-earning years of their careers, affecting sleep, concentration and workplace productivity.
She also pointed to delays in diagnosing conditions such as endometriosis, saying one in 10 women is affected and diagnosis can take an average of nine years. Robertson said reducing those delays will require greater investment in research, clinician training, specialized services and healthcare delivery.
Mental health is another key focus, she said, noting women face a higher risk of developing mental health disorders and are diagnosed with depression at roughly twice the rate of men. Robertson said more research is needed to better understand those disparities.
The foundation has committed $23.5 million over the next decade to women’s health research, but Robertson said governments, healthcare organizations, employers, corporations and philanthropists must all contribute to achieve lasting progress.