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Widow and Widower Mortality in India: A Research Note.
Megan N Reed1, Babul Hossain2, Srinivas Goli3
1Department of Sociology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Widowhood increases mortality risk for adults aged 25-59 in India, with no difference between men and women. However, conservative gender norms disproportionately affect widows, impacting their survival chances.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Widowhood is a significant life event linked to increased mortality globally.
- Previous research has not specifically quantified widowhood's mortality impact in India.
- Understanding these risks is crucial for public health interventions and social support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and contextualize the mortality risk associated with widowhood for men and women in India.
- To compare mortality risks between widowed and married individuals across different age groups.
- To examine the influence of gender norms on mortality risks for widows.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the India Human Development Survey (IHDS) waves 1 (2004-2005) and 2.
- Tracked survival status of individuals over a seven-year period.
- Employed statistical analysis to compare mortality rates based on marital status and age.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in mortality risk was found for widowhood among individuals aged 60 and older.
- Adults aged 25-59 who were widowed exhibited higher mortality risks compared to married individuals.
- Mortality risks for widows and widowers aged 25-59 were similar, but widows in conservative gender norm environments faced elevated risks.
Conclusions:
- Widowhood poses a significant mortality risk for adults aged 25-59 in India, irrespective of gender.
- While widowers and widows share similar elevated risks, gender norms create additional vulnerabilities for widows.
- Findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive policies and social support systems for widowed individuals in India.
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