A cross-sectional study to assess the morbidity pattern among female agricultural workers in the rural area of Central India: a study protocol

Abstract

Agriculture serves as the primary source of income for a substantial number of agricultural workers, with a significant portion of the Indian population, especially in rural areas, engaged in this occupation. However, the health status of female agricultural workers is often adversely affected by various factors, including working conditions, environmental exposure, and other morbidities. As a result, they are at risk of developing several diseases, such as tuberculosis, diabetes, hypertension, lung disease, muscle pain, joint pain, and pesticide poisoning, which constitute the main occupational health concerns in this sector. Unfortunately, despite the prevalence of these health risks, many female agricultural workers do not prioritize their own health and wellbeing. According to the latest survey data by the National sample survey office (NSSO), around 54% of the Indian workforce is engaged in agriculture, mainly in rural areas. There are no unions for female agricultural workers, and they cannot receive occupational health facilities and social security schemes provided to them. This study aims to understand female agricultural workers and health-seeking behaviours and morbidities. Objectives- This study assesses the morbidity pattern among female agricultural workers and the health-seeking behaviour of female agricultural workers. It also identifies the utilization of social security schemes among female agricultural workers in villages. The study focuses on assessing the morbidities among female agricultural workers aged 18 and above residing in the villages of Wardha district of Maharashtra. For this purpose, A pretested questionnaire covering sociodemographic data, morbidity profile, socioeconomic variables, family, education, and social security measures will be utilized. The study aims to conduct a community-based cross-sectional survey among 131 female agricultural workers from the specified region.