The 2011 Hygiene Matters Report, commissioned by personal care product producer SCA, revealed that when it comes to discussing personal hygiene, 59 percent of women choose the wellbeing dimension as the most important aspect.
“SCA wants to raise the awareness of the connection between hygiene, health and wellbeing around the world. We believe that no one, no matter who they are or where they live, should have to suffer, physically or mentally due to insufficient hygiene,” says Jan Johansson, CEO of SCA.
Essential for sense of dignity
According to the SCA report, access to personal hygiene products is essential for women’s sense of dignity, identity and self-confidence.
Fifty six percent of women feel that menstruation makes them feel uncomfortable in social situations
“We do not think that a natural, bodily cycle as menstruation, or incontinence, should impact women’s freedom to participate fully in society,” said Kersti Strandqvist, SCA’s senior vice president for Corporate Sustainability.
“But it still does, unfortunately. Our Report shows that women’s needs and aspirations, when it comes to personal hygiene for themselves and their families, are strikingly similar across the world,” Strandqvist added.
Raise awareness with report
Through the series of Hygiene Matters Reports, SCA claims it is looking to raise awareness among decision makers, experts and the general public of the connection between hygiene, health and wellbeing.
The 2011 survey was conducted throughout nine countries: Australia, China, France, Germany, Mexico, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. More details about the Hygiene Matters Report can be found here www.sca.com/hygiene.