A new study has revealed that delaying marriage significantly reduces the risk of obesity among Pakistani women, particularly those living in urban areas. Previous studies have indicated that both men and women often gain weight after marriage, with some couples experiencing obesity directly linked to their marital lifestyle.
The latest research, published in a medical journal, analyzed data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (2012–13 and 2017–18). It found that over half of adult women in Pakistan are overweight or obese, but delaying marriage plays a crucial role in mitigating this risk for women in cities.
Experts suggest that marrying at a young age increases the likelihood of obesity. Many women face pressure to have children early due to fertility expectations. Concurrently, they often have limited access to education, reduced health knowledge, and less decision-making power at home—all factors that contribute to unhealthy weight gain.
Study Findings
The study, led by the University of York, concluded that social gender norms, combined with urban lifestyles, have accelerated obesity rates in Pakistan. It demonstrated that delaying marriage provides women with greater opportunities for education, literacy, and access to health information. These factors contribute to the development of healthier lifestyle habits and increased attention to nutrition.
Link Between Age Gap and Decision-Making
Another significant finding was that postponing marriage often narrows the age gap between spouses. This balance grants women more influence in household decisions, including control over food choices. Researchers noted that such empowerment not only benefits women’s own health but also improves the well-being of their children. Despite these advantages, the study’s data indicates that nearly 40 percent of Pakistani women still marry before the age of 18. For urban women, each additional year of delaying marriage was associated with approximately a 0.7 percent reduction in obesity risk. Women who married at age 23 or later experienced the most substantial protective effect.
