Balancing Bones and Burdens: Health and Life Challenges of Housewives vs. Working Women

Abstract

Women’s overall health is impacted by several factors, including, but not limited to, bone health, nutrition, finances, and psychosocial factors. Osteoporosis, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, and pregnancy-related risks are a few of such challenges. Both financial difficulties and an imbalance between professional and private life add to the neglect towards health care needs. This study explored the primary health concern of women osteoporotic bone health with added layers of financial stress and psychosocial factors through qualitative data analysis. A qualitative design was utilized wherein semi-structured interviews were preferred for women from different socio-economic classes. Thematic analysis, as well as word frequency analysis, were employed to find salient health issues and their relationships. Based on the findings, greater proportions of these women reported having difficulties owing to osteoporotic symptoms because of financial burdens and excessive workloads. Many of the respondents reported not getting enough calcium and vitamin D enriched foods which increases the fragility of bones. Financial difficulties emerged as one of the major health issues due to insufficient accessible medical care and preventive health checks. Stress from heavy workloads and lack of time for self-care compounded these chronic health problems resulting in the postponement of needed medical care. The hierarchy of word frequency analysis confirmed that bone health and occupational health exerted stress on the work life of the respondents.