Younger women appear to have increased knowledge. There is lower use of the contraceptive Pill in Italian born women than Australian born. However the average family size is similar. However, there may be pressure within Italian families to eat as part of social occasions, and not eating can be seen as rejection of Italian culture. The young Italian woman gains no support for dieting, as a bit of extra weight is seen as a sign of good health.
Meals can become a cause of tension in the family.
Older women Menopause may be perceived as a time when the blood slows, causing vulnerability to a range of diseases including cancer. Older women may develop anxieties about becoming old and dying far from their Italian home. A health profile. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Multicultural Access Unit. 1996.