The influence of marriage in health and its role in case of illness

It has been established that marriage contributes to better health to both partners. However, when one partner suffers from a chronic disease, psychological and physical health burden Aim: A literature review about the interface between marriage and couple members’ level of health and to determine the reasons of this interaction in order to promote the inclusion of the patients’ partners as part of their care plan and promote the good quality of life in general. Materials and methods: A review of international electronic and published database has been carried out and the material of this study consists of sources published mainly over the last fifteen years. Findings: The satisfaction of the relationship plays a main role in the positive influence marriage has on partners’ health, otherwise the influence is negative. In the cases of chronic illnesses the partners’ wellbeing is important because family and especially marital relationship constitutes the ultimate care unit and the spouse often becomes the main caregiver. Conclusions: Marriage doesn’t inevitably equal with good health. Given the important part the spouse has on his/her partner’s health, it is necessary in health sector to evaluate patients’ spouses’ burden and health, both in terms of prevention and also of improving the therapeutic intervention.