New Meaning To In Sickness and In Health
Posted: Monday, August 24, 2009
by Asher Ricard
Researchers at the Indiana University has released some interesting facts concerning marriage and its effect on beating cancer.
It can be a nightmare to hear the diagnosis Cancer. But for those in a happy marriage, it can mean a supportive fight to beating the disease.
For those facing the unfortunate realization of going through a break up or separation at the same time as being diagnosed, the odds are not looking good for beating the Cancer disease.
Researchers found that people who were married had a 63% chance of surviving five years, compared to 45% of people who were separated, the journal Cancer reported.
They assessed the 5 and 10 year survival rates of 3.79 million patients diagnosed with cancer between 1973 and 2004. They found that married patients had the highest 5 and 10 year survival rates, at 63.3 percent and 57.5 percent respectively.
At the other end of the spectrum, separation carried the poorest survival outcome. Specifically, the 5 and 10 year survival rates for separated patients were 45.4 percent and 36.8 percent respectively.
The reasoning they feel there is such a huge difference between the married and separated is that those going through a separation experience much more stress which in turn compromises the immune system.
Why is this an issue or a breakthrough. It shows doctors and families the importance of healthy relationships and support through illnesses.
I think we had it right all along when we vowed to love our spouse "in sickness and in health." If we are not showing support during the sick times then this study may very well prove that the healthy times may not occur.
Preserving marriages can have an everlasting effect on health and survival. Take the vows seriously and show love to one another.
If you are not in a relationship, visit someone who is sick and offer your support and love.
For more information on this study, visit online at http://www.medicine.indiana.edu/news_releases/viewRelease.php4?art=1133
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