Role of Men in Women’s Health Status in Rural Areas of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

BACKGROUNDIn commemoration of World Population Day 2011 with the Under Theme 'Men as Partners in Maternal Health.' Given the importance of the male role in the Indian context in the family decisions which is inclusive of women's reproductive health and family size led to undertake this study to assess their care or role in women's health in the underserved areas of Andhra Pradesh.The study is to assess the health status of women aged 18-45 years, elicit the men's awareness and response of men regarding their wives' health status and to determine if both the responses are in conformity. MATERIALS AND METHODSHundred families were randomly selected within 15 kms of Bapatla town of Guntur and Prakasam districts. RESULTSOver 60-65% of women in the age group did have one or the other health problems like anaemia, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, pregnancy and related health needs; 70% of men were aware that their wives were unwell; 20-25% of men went to the hospital with their wives and took responsibility of home care. Over 75% of men decided which hospital to go to and family size decisi on. Nearly, 92% of men did not know about the safe period. CONCLUSIONDespite the fact that majority of women are unwell and men being aware, little favourable response observed. This needs to be gently worked on to involve men for better women's health.