A recent study indicates that marriage may be related to a lower risk of cancer. Rates of this disease are considerably higher in single men and women compared to those who are married, suggesting that marriage may offer health advantages. In a context where marriage rates are declining, it can be inferred that more people may be missing out on a potential health benefit, notes Dr. Andrew J. Cherlin, professor emeritus at Johns Hopkins University, as reported by CNN. The research, published in the journal Cancer Research Communications, also reveals significant differences in how marriage affects health between men and women. It suggests that, at least in terms of cancer, single women face a higher risk than their married counterparts. Furthermore, for older adults, the relationship between marriage and health appears to strengthen, implying that the benefits may accumulate over time.

Vital Considerations

Experts such as Dr. Joan DelFattore, a specialist in cancer and civil law, argue that the benefits attributed to marriage may be the result of a system that favors married people, rather than marriage itself.

Healthcare and insurance policies often exclude single people, raising the need for deeper reflection on how these patients are treated.

It is suggested that support networks be promoted for both single and married people, emphasizing that well-being is not limited to marital relationships.

Improving Care for Single People

Studies show that single people often face health disadvantages compared to married people, such as a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and lower overall well-being.

Specificizing policies could balance this, prioritizing their access and support.

Strengthen primary care. Reinforce primary care with free, personalized checkups for single people, including accessible diagnostic tests without lengthy referrals. This reduces inequalities in waiting times and prevention, similar to recommendations for vulnerable groups. Staff training in unique needs, such as social isolation, would improve the humanization of the service.

Subsidies and universal coverage. Implement exclusive subsidies for single people for medications, imaging, and palliative therapies, expanding models such as cancer or maternal and child health plans to this group. Universal coverage without family requirements would eliminate economic barriers observed in single people. Home-based psychological and social support would combat the higher risk of mortality.

Targeted prevention programs. Create community centers for single people with an emphasis on cardiovascular disease, dementia, and cancer, offering education, nutrition, and non-family support networks. Gender-sensitive and inclusive policies already address similar vulnerabilities. Monitoring legally guaranteed wait times would ensure fairness.