Haleon Launches Study on Metabolic Health in Midlife Asian Women

Haleon, a consumer health company focused on everyday health, and the ASTAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (ASTAR IHDP) have launched a new clinical study called the Impact of Multivitamin and Mineral Supplementation on Metabolic Health in Midlife Women (ISMOS). The study will examine how Centrum multivitamin and mineral supplementation may affect metabolic health among middle-aged Asian women, a group that remains under-represented in global health research.

The study builds on earlier research by Haleon and A*STAR IHDP using data from Growing Up in Singapore towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO). The analysis found that midlife women with higher vitamin levels generally had more favorable metabolic health indicators, including lower blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure. They also showed better mental well-being and mobility, highlighting the potential role of adequate vitamin intake in supporting women's health during midlife.

Metabolic health is becoming an increasing concern across Asia and globally, influenced by ageing populations, busy lifestyles and inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Although women generally live longer than men, research indicates that they spend around 25% more of their lives in poorer health, underscoring the need for greater attention to women's health and well-being throughout midlife.

Key Highlights:

• Haleon and A*STAR IHDP has launched the ISMOS clinical study
• The study examines metabolic health in midlife Asian women
• The research aims to support healthier ageing and preventive care

Women in midlife experience unique physiological changes associated with menopausal transition, which may increase vulnerability to metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of risk factors, such as higher blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and poorer blood sugar control. Metabolic syndrome significantly raises the risk of chronic medical conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Supporting women's health during this life stage is critical not only for individual well-being, but also for families, communities and economies. The World Economic Forum has estimated that every US$1 invested in women's health can generate up to US$3 in economic returns through improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs.

"Our collaboration with A*STAR IHDP marks an important step in addressing the evolving health needs of midlife women across Asia, thus bringing our purpose to deliver better everyday health with humanity to life," said Keith Choy, President of Asia Pacific, Haleon. "As more people are diagnosed with conditions linked to metabolic health, we are strengthening our focus on prevention and healthy ageing by further establishing the role of Centrum in supporting women through midlife."

"ISMOS is an important next step in strengthening evidence in a population that is often under-represented in global nutrition research," said Alicia Ng, APAC & ISC R&D Lead, Haleon. "By building on insights from prior research, we are deepening our understanding of how Centrum, as a scientifically formulated multivitamin, supports key aspects of metabolic health in midlife women. This study allows us to translate scientific understanding into practical, accessible solutions that can help women better manage their health through this life stage."

"This collaboration reflects A*STAR's commitment to research that supports healthier lives and human potential in Singapore. Through the ISMOS study, we hope to generate locally and regionally relevant evidence on metabolic health in midlife Asian women, contributing to a better understanding of preventive health and healthier ageing in our population," said Professor Johan Eriksson, Executive Director of A*STAR IHDP.

The Haleon–A*STAR IHDP partnership reflects a shared ambition to bridge scientific research and practical health solutions, supporting preventive health approaches that empower individuals to take charge of their own health.