Urologic and gynecologic health problems among Zimbabwean women: what is the role of poverty?
A summary of the cultural and geopolitical climate described in the companion article, "Mwatambudzeni's Short Life," is provided (Kanchense, 2007). The multiplicity and complexity of factors, as well as some of the governmental policies and attitudes that have contributed to the environment in which a young pregnant woman can so easily suffer death during childbirth are explained. Some of the root causes of poverty among Zimbabwean women are described, and the pathophysiological consequences of cultural practices, and health and social policies are explored. Recommendations for improving overall urologic health among Zimbabwean women are provided.
Kanchense
Jane Handina Murigwa
JH
Education and Research Services, Peace County Health, Alberta, Canada.
D005260:Female; D052776:Female Urogenital Diseases / Q000208:ethnology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006285:Health Planning; D006291:Health Policy; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D054625:Healthcare Disparities; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008428:Maternal Mortality; D011203:Poverty / Q000208:ethnology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000208:ethnology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016387:Women's Health / Q000208:ethnology; D015030:Zimbabwe / Q000453:epidemiology