South Asian Women's Physical Health
Many South Asian women feel a tension between their families’ expectations and their own desires regarding their health decisions. Often, they feel it is their duty to take care of their partners, spouses, children, parents, in-laws, or others before taking care of themselves. In some South Asian communities, there can be an emphasis on a woman’s duty to sacrifice her time and energy to care for others, or to defer to others in making important health decisions. Although it may not come naturally to put oneself first, it is highly important for all women to make their personal health a priority. By taking care of yourself, you are also ensuring that you are around a long time to help care for the people you love.
For more information about physical health, visit:
For more information about body image, visit the U.S. Health and Human Services' Body Image website.
Last reviewed: 2012
