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. 2024 Apr;13(4):1271-1277.
doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1325_23. Epub 2024 Apr 22.

A cross-sectional study to assess the occupational health hazards among fisherwomen in a metropolitan city

Rujuta S Hadaye  1 , Aditi Dey  2
Affiliations

A cross-sectional study to assess the occupational health hazards among fisherwomen in a metropolitan city

Rujuta S Hadaye et al. J Family Med Prim Care. 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Context: Research on the working conditions and health hazards of fishing communities in developing countries is scarce.

Aims: 1) To assess the occupational health hazards among women fish vendors. 2) To understand the morbidity profile in them. 3) To analyze various challenges faced by them at the workplace in this occupation. 4) To suggest various measures including ergonomic solutions that they can take to reduce these health hazards.

Settings and design: Community-based observational cross-sectional study.

Methods and material: Eight fish markets comprising women fish vendors working for more than one year (age > 30 years) in Mumbai were selected. A cluster sampling method was used. The sample size was 225. The period of the study was 2 years.

Statistical analysis used: Chi-square test.

Results: The majority of study subjects had diabetes mellitus (24%) and were overweight (54.7%). Of all participants, 55.1% had musculoskeletal pain of which low back pain (69; 30.7%) was most common. There was a significant association between musculoskeletal pain status and mode of carrying boxes, χ2 (1) =56.35 as well as with duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =89.67, P < 0.001. Of all participants, 90.2% got injured of which the majority had incisional wounds (124; 61.1%). Of all participants, 55.1% suffered from skin infections of which the majority (28; 12.4%) had itching and redness of hands and legs. There was a significant association between skin infections and duration of occupation, χ2 (3) =140.53 as well as with the use of gloves (63.2% participants), χ2 (1) =20.395, P < 0.001.

Conclusions: Various measures including ergonomic solutions that women fish vendors can take to reduce these health hazards need to be addressed.

Keywords: Dockyard; ergonomics; incisional wound; musculoskeletal pain; occupational health; traditional Kolis; unorganized sector.

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Conflict of interest statement

There are no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Use of sharp objects for cutting fish
Figure 2
Figure 2
Non-use of protective gear such as gloves and splash gowns
Figure 3
Figure 3
Improper water disposal and open drain
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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