Reproductive tract infections: Attitude and barriers among marginalized fisher women in Kerala, South India.
Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are the cause of severe gynecological and maternal morbidity in India. In marginalized communities, women persevere quietly when faced with a culturally sensitive health issue such as an RTI. To hypothesize on the differential health behavior and low levels of reported incidents among women living in marginalized communities, we undertake an exploratory study in a coastal fishermen community in South India. We identify barriers influencing decisions to seek curative and preventive medical care. Public health practitioners and social workers may find our recommendations relevant for addressing health issues in marginalized communities.
a Department of Information Systems, School of Business , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA.
Manoj A
MA
Thomas
b General Management, Women in Inclusive Communication Initiative , Ernakulam , India.
Poornima
P
Narayan
D000328:Adult; D003144:Communication Barriers; D057210:Delayed Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D005398:Fisheries; D015438:Health Behavior; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D060737:Reproductive Tract Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000191:economics / Q000523:psychology*; D012424:Rural Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D062487:Social Marginalization / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult