Abstract Panel


Authors Information
SequenceTypeName TitleFirst NameLast NameDepartmentInstitute / Affiliation
1 Author Ms. Peteneinuo Rulu Department of Anthropology University of Massachusetts Amherst
2 Author Prof. Lynnette Leidy Sievert Department of Anthropology University of Massachusetts Amherst
Abstract Information
TrackID
:
IUAES23_ABS_K4073
Abstract Theme
:
P136 - Dynamics of Population Ageing in 21st century: Present and future
Abstract Title
:
Midlife symptoms influence fingernail cortisol and perceived stress
Short Abstract
:
This study examined the relationship between menopausal symptoms, household stressors, ethnopolitical problems, and stress markers among 151 women aged 40-55 in Nagaland, India. Results revealed a significant positive correlation between emotional instability and stress markers, including fingernail cortisol (ß=0.35, p=0.01) and perceived stress (ß=0.29, p=0.05), even after controlling for BMI and socioeconomic status. Additionally, household problems were positively associated with fingernail cortisol (ß=0.20, p=0.05), highlighting the health implications of psychosocial stress caused by domestic stressors.
Long Abstract
:

Midlife is a pivotal phase in one’s life when, for many, changes in physiology lead to stressful life experiences. One such experience is menopause. Menopause is an important transitional event that all women undergo, which marks the end of reproductive life and the beginning of post-reproductive life. In the context of this cross-sectional study conducted in Nagaland, India, we investigated the relationship between menopausal symptoms, household stressors and ethnopolitical problems in relation to stress markers, including chronic stress measured by fingernail cortisol, perceived stress measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and acute stress measured by blood pressure. Using cross-sectional data (n=151) among women aged 40-55, our results revealed a significant positive correlation between a composite measure of emotional instability and stress assessed by both fingernail cortisol (β=0.35, p=0.01) and perceived stress (β=0.29, p=0.05). This relationship persisted after controlling for BMI and socioeconomic status. Additionally, household problems were positively associated with fingernail cortisol (β=0.20, p=0.05). These findings highlight the potential health impacts of the psychosocial stress response associated with domestic stressors such as financial strain and concerns about children and health. In the unique sociocultural context of Nagaland, India, these findings contribute to our understanding of stress and its association with symptoms at midlife in this specific population. Our study sheds light on the importance of addressing household stressors and psychosocial factors during this transitional midlife period.

Abstract Keywords
:
midlife symptoms, fingernail cortisol, Nagaland