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Launch of the Brain Health Coalition

On July 10, 2026, HealthyWomen, a prominent source of women's health information, introduced the Brain Health Coalition, which seeks to reshape how Americans perceive and manage brain health, particularly for women in midlife. This groundbreaking initiative joins forces with employers, health care systems, medical associations, research institutions, and community organizations to tackle the pressing issue of Alzheimer's disease.

The Urgency of Midlife Interventions

Alzheimer’s-related brain alterations can often begin decades before visible symptoms manifest. Despite this timeline, the midlife phase continues to be largely overlooked in terms of early intervention. Beth Battaglino, CEO of HealthyWomen, emphasizes the importance of addressing brain health earlier in life, stating, “The time to act is decades earlier.” The coalition represents an urgent call to action, aiming to create infrastructural changes that will benefit every American.

The coalition’s architecture is designed to bridge existing gaps and leverage current efforts for maximum impact. It encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders, including employers, healthcare providers, insurers, researchers, and community organizations, all of whom play a significant role in shaping health outcomes. Together, they aim to normalize brain health as a routine component of midlife care.

A Multifaceted Approach to Change

The Brain Health Coalition operates on three foundational pillars: perception, education, and policy. Recognizing that advancement in one area alone is insufficient, the coalition seeks an integrated approach to achieve sustainable and meaningful progress. This cohesive framework is critical for changing the way society perceives and prioritizes brain health.

The steering committee, featuring organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Health Council, guides the coalition. Their collaboration is spearheaded by key strategic partners, including Eli Lilly and Company. Katie Evans, from the Alzheimer's Association, highlights the significance of early intervention during midlife—advocating that routine screenings for cognitive health are as essential as checks for blood pressure or cholesterol.

Addressing Gender Disparities

Notably, nearly two-thirds of individuals living with Alzheimer's are women. This gender disparity also implies that women generally shoulder a larger share of caregiving responsibilities, which further informs the coalition's design and objectives. By focusing on biological risk factors, equity issues, and lived experiences, HealthyWomen is positioned as the ideal convener for this essential initiative.

The coalition aims to foster a future where awareness surrounding brain health is woven into the fabric of midlife experiences, ensuring that preventive measures are accessible and routine. By advocating for early screenings and education, the Brain Health Coalition aspires to pave the way for better outcomes and improved quality of life for all individuals, particularly women, facing these challenges as they age.

Moving Forward

HealthyWomen has been at the forefront of women’s health education for nearly 40 years, and with the launch of the Brain Health Coalition, it continues its legacy of advocacy and support. The collective effort seeks to create a more informed public and incentivize proactive health management. To learn more about this initiative, visit BrainHealthCoalition.org for further details on membership and organizational involvement.

In summary, the establishment of the Brain Health Coalition marks a crucial step toward improving brain health awareness and support systems during midlife. With a strong collaborative foundation, the coalition is set to drive change, addressing an often-neglected aspect of health care. This initiative invites stakeholders at all levels to join the movement, advocating for early intervention and education in brain health.