0
0
Christmas Issue of The BMJ Highlights Unexpected Hazards for Popular Characters
While Disney princesses are renowned for their enchanting tales and happy endings, experts are raising serious concerns about the hidden health risks they face in their fantastical worlds. In the Christmas issue of The BMJ, researchers, led by Sanne van Dijk, warn that these beloved characters may not be living the idyllic lives that their stories suggest and propose strategies to improve their well-being.
The article outlines a range of potential health issues affecting the iconic princesses, urging Disney to take proactive measures to ensure their long-term health.
Snow White’s Isolation and Poisoned Apple
Despite being celebrated as the “fairest of them all,” Snow White’s life as a scullery maid under her wicked stepmother is a recipe for disaster, according to the experts. The isolation Snow White faces limits her social interactions, putting her at risk for cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, and an early death. Although she eventually finds companionship with the Seven Dwarfs, Snow White’s fate takes a tragic turn when she consumes a poisoned apple, highlighting the dangers of even the most seemingly innocent foods.
Jasmine’s Loneliness and Rajah’s Risks
Princess Jasmine from Aladdin faces similar challenges. Growing up in a palace with no friends, Jasmine is at a high risk of the health effects of loneliness. Her relationship with her pet tiger, Rajah, also poses additional risks. Not only could Rajah transmit zoonotic diseases, but his wild instincts could lead to a potentially fatal encounter, further compounding Jasmine’s health hazards.
Belle’s Close Contact with the Beast
In Beauty and the Beast, Belle’s interactions with the Beast bring about a new set of risks, including exposure to infectious diseases such as brucellosis or rabies. The constant contact with an animal, particularly one of the Beast’s size and temperament, raises concerns about her overall health.
Cinderella’s Dust and Glitter Dilemma
Cinderella, known for her tireless cleaning, faces potential long-term health effects from her exposure to dust and magical glitter. The glitter, made of aluminum-coated microplastics, can penetrate human lung tissue, increasing the risk of occupational lung diseases. The authors suggest that Cinderella, rather than a prince, may require ongoing respiratory therapy to live healthily ever after.
Pocahontas’ Risky Cliff Dive
Pocahontas, in her daring attempt to bring peace between Native Americans and English settlers, performs a dangerous cliff dive. Experts warn that a fall from an estimated height of 252 meters would likely result in severe fractures, a stark contrast to the peaceful harmony portrayed in the story.
Aurora’s Infinite Sleep and Health Risks
Princess Aurora of Sleeping Beauty faces a different kind of health risk, with her extended sleep linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, obesity, and diabetes. The prolonged bed rest would also increase her risk of pressure ulcers and muscle atrophy. While Prince Philip’s kiss may break the curse, the article notes that his actions also disregard modern norms regarding consent.
Mulan’s Mental Health Struggles
Mulan, while celebrated for saving China, faces immense pressure from her family to uphold their honor. The researchers highlight the psychological toll of living under such pressure, particularly for women experiencing honor-based violence. This mental strain can contribute to significant mental health challenges.
Rapunzel’s Traction Alopecia
Finally, Rapunzel, known for her impossibly long braid, may suffer from traction alopecia due to the repetitive pulling on her hair. This condition can lead to scalp pain, headaches, and permanent hair loss, a less glamorous consequence of her magical locks.
Call for Action from Disney
The experts urge Disney to adopt strategies such as mindfulness, psychotherapy, and better training for princesses on cohabitation with animals and personal protection measures to safeguard against the toxic elements and infectious diseases they face. By addressing these health risks, the researchers believe that Disney princesses can begin to live healthily ever after.
The article concludes that while these princesses may have their happily-ever-afters, they also deserve modern interventions to help them thrive in today’s world.
For more information, read Living Happily Ever After? The Hidden Health Risks of Disney Princesses in The BMJ (2024).
Source: The BMJ (DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q2497)
