Prevalence and intersecting burdens of reproductive health morbidities among female fish farmers in the coastal region of Bangladesh
10.1016/j.glohj.2025.09.002
- Author:
Uddin MD.SALAH
1
;
Biswas HOSSAIN
;
Mishkatul Jannat MEGHA
;
Ghosh ESHITA
;
Hashem SHAHARIOR
;
Mohammad Mahfujul HAQUE
;
A.Hasan NEAZ
Author Information
1. Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience,Gopa
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Uterine health;
Female fish farmer;
Structural equation modeling(SEM);
Psychosocial burden;
Gender health disparities
- From:
Global Health Journal
2025;9(3):248-258
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Female fish farmers in coastal Bangladesh face significant reproductive health(RH)challenges due to occupational,nutritional,and sociocultural factors.However,their health burdens have been largely overlooked in labor and health policies.Objectives:This study aims to investigate the prevalence,severity,determinants,and emotional and relationship consequences of RH morbidities among female fish farmers in Shyamnagar,Satkhira,Bangladesh.Methods:A cross-sectional survey with structured questionnaires was conducted among 297 female fish farmers.Data were supplemented by rural appraisal activities.Descriptive statistics,chi-square tests,Poisson regression,and Structural Equation Modeling were used for analysis.Results:The study found that 59.60％(177/297)of participants suffered from moderate to severe uterine issues,remarkably menstrual irregularities(92.65％,164/177),backache(59.32％,105/177),pelvic and fatigue pain(42.37％,75/177),anemia(28.24％,50/177),with the"21-30"year age group bearing a higher physiological burden with greater relational and emotional disruptions than"31-40"year age group,and"41-50"year age group women.High exposure to occupational chemicals(81.82％,243/297)and lack of personal protective equipment(93.94％,279/297)were key contributors.Access to formal healthcare is limited due to financial hardships(85.86％,255/297),social stigma(51.52％,153/297),and inadequate health services(46.47％,138/297).Structural Equation Modeling results also revealed significant associations among RH morbidities,emotional distress,social isolation,and diminishing well-being.Conclusion:The study highlights the urgent need for integrated health policies addressing reproductive care,occupational safety,and mental health support for female fish farmers in coastal Bangladesh.Addressing these issues will improve their health,well-being,and resilience.
