PremiumDanielle ZicklWashington Post·7 Jun, 2026 06:00 PM6 mins to read“Long-term, stable marriages are associated with lower mortality risk, but simply staying married for decades does not automatically improve health," says emergency doctor Shannon Markus. Photo / 123rfSaying “I do” may influence your cancer risk, mental health and more.
Relationships – whether romantic, platonic or familial – are powerful contributors to well-being. Having close social ties and support can improve health and resilience to stress and maybe even increase longevity. However, some research suggests that being married











