Does festive overload aggravate Hypertension in Indian Women?
Hypertension remains the most important modifiable risk factor causing cardiovascular disease in women across the globe and leads to significant risk of heart attacks, stroke, dementia, retinopathy and kidney ailments.
In a traditional country like India, where many festivals are celebrated throughout the year with great gusto by the entire society, the task of preparations for the event is s till majorly handled by the females. Gender inequality significantly contributes to stress in Indian women, irrespective of religion due to heightened expectations, unequal workload and societal pressure.
Women, unfortunately in most households bear the brunt of domestic responsibilities and traditional gender roles which may lead to overbearing anxiety. Most of the Indian festivals involve a surge in cooking an array of goodies, cleaning homes and decorations. This extra load coupled with the expectation of being a perfect wife, mother, daughter in law to maintain a perfect festive atmosphere whilst seamlessly and tirelessly managing professional responsibilities leads to working “double shift” approach and leads to “anticipatory stress,” burnout, and sometimes depression all contributing to raised blood pressure.
As most Indians equate love with food, festivals largely involve the consumption of high calorie sugary as well as salty stuff, processed foods with total disruption in the routine ( sometime, may forget to take medicines also) leading to haywire blood sugars and blood pressure which are detrimental for one’s own health.
The cumulative effects of these changes in women juggling multiple roles can temporarily or permanently increase blood pressure. Women in the age group of 35-55 years reported a 17-25% increase in stress and fatigue during festivals. Also, sleep deprivation during festivals leads to a 34% increase in blood pressure spikes.
Raising awareness and promoting gender responsive policies are crucial for addressing these issues. Men who always were traditionally the primary breadwinners now need to take up caregiving role at home and can unselfishly support women at home by sharing household chores before being “asked”, participating actively in childcare and prioritizing their partners needs and career goals.
Festivals are in fact such a welcome break from monotony and are meant to rejuvenate, not exhaust and our aim should be not to have pressure at socializing but all should have pleasure at socializing. This can be only achieved if women learn the art of letting go of their idea of picture perfect keeping their heart and health in mind. It doesn’t mean we are selfish and don’t care. It means we care enough to let everyone be happy as we too bask in the joy of celebrating traditions with a carefree heart.
