Women are often credited to be multitaskers, but very few realise that multitasking comes with its own costs. When one has a long list of things to accomplish, especially in the case of women, often what happens is that personal needs come last. A recent survey by Pune-based Emcure Pharmaceuticals shows this is absolutely true, especially in the case of working women.
The survey interviewed working women from the city over the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the results show staggering revelations. It shows that 93 per cent of working women are conflicted while balancing family responsibilities, professional responsibilities and personal health—and naturally, personal health takes the lowest priority. It further shows that 68 per cent of working women also feel pressurised to prioritise family over work.
While this low priority on personal health might not seem like a big issue, the fact is that it does affect women’s health in the long run. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), seven out of the top 10 health issues that lead to death among Indian women are caused by chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Heart attacks, stroke and respiratory issues lead this list.
What is even more notable is that the World Health Organisation (WHO) says that NCDs are usually caused by lifestyle choices, and are highly preventable if we prioritise our health from an early age. Combining this with the findings of the above-mentioned survey shows an alarming scenario for women’s health in India, especially among working women.
“Women tend to ignore health issues, make do with home remedies or off-the-counter medication, and delay taking tests till it becomes a serious cause for concern,” Dr Ketaki Joshi, a general physician, was quoted as saying in a Times of India report on the issue. “Stress and unhealthy lifestyle choices are major contributors to cardio-related ailments, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, hypertension and infertility, all of which are on the rise.”
Clearly, focusing on women’s health is the biggest need of the hours, especially if we are to face up to the challenges of the future, given the lessons of the pandemic. To take charge of your health now, head to Her Circle’s health trackers and panel of medical professionals for recommendations and guidance.