The Health Benefits of Getting Married

Heart disease may be the leading cause of death in the Philippines, but getting married can reduce the risk of developing one.

A study from Finland’s University of Turku found out that unmarried men were 58% more likely to have a heart attack than their married counterparts, while the risk is slightly higher for single women at 60%.

And perhaps it is because of their wives’ persistence, but married men go to their doctors earlier than single men once they experience chest pain, leading to lower risk of cardiovascular death.

Stroke can take a toll on even the toughest of marriages. Fortunately, being married can also lower one’s chances of suffering from a stroke.

A report from Tel Aviv University discovered that married men have a 64% lower chance of suffering from fatal strokes than single men.

The same findings were supported by a Duke University research, which suggested that those who were divorced, widowed, or never married are more likely to die following a stroke than those who were married.

Cancer may be a killer, but researchers from the University of California found out that married cancer patients are more likely to survive the illness than those without the support of a spouse.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology also showed that married individuals are more likely to receive cancer treatment promptly. Moreover, unmarried patients have a higher risk of undertreatment and developing metastatic cancer, hence resulting in death.

Getting married also contributes to bone strength—at least for husbands, according to a study published in Osteoporosis International.

And while there was no significant link between bone strength and being married among women, the presence of spousal support had a positive association with women’s bone strength.

The health benefits of marriage extend beyond the physical.

Married couples are less likely to suffer from severe depression compared to divorced, never married, or even cohabiting people. Being married also leads to better cognitive function and lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Those who are happily married have a lower risk of developing sleep problems compared to those experiencing marital strife.

Research from the University of Pittsburgh also noted that wives have a 10% better chance of getting a good night’s sleep compared to their single counterparts.

According to a report from the University of Chicago, a strong, long-term bond as in a marriage can reduce cortisol levels in the bloodstream, thus regulating stress more easily. It can also cause men’s testosterone levels to drop, making them less headstrong and more fatherly.

Married patients who undergo major surgery are three times more likely to be alive 15 years later than single patients.

In fact, having a supportive spouse is as important for survival after surgery as other risk factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and tobacco use.

Through the years and in a wide variety of cultures, research has consistently shown that marriage can improve life expectancy and promote an active lifestyle.

According to the oft-cited study done by Dr. Ilene Siegler, having the support of a partner through middle and old age can prevent premature death, whether by accident, disease, or self-inflicted wounds.

Though these figures require further research to establish cause and effect, it cannot be denied that marriage is associated with overall better health. Married people tend to take fewer health risks, contributing to better physical, mental, and emotional health.

Wedded couples are also better off financially, allowing them to have a reliable health insurance that gives them the motivation to live a healthy and fit lifestyle.

The BPI AIA wellness programs is designed to complement all the benefits that marriage has to offer so that couples can get more out of life while being protected from great health risks.

Thanks to cash benefits for critical illnesses, life insurance coverage, and protection during disability or illness, Critical Care Max and Critical Care Plus, which are part of the BPI AIA Wellness Series, ensure that married couples have all their wellness bases covered.

To take the first step on living longer, healthier, and better, contact a Bancassurance Sales Executive or check the BPI AIA Wellness Series.