A cross-sectional survey was carried out in collaboration with the International Rescue Committees’ health care program for Afghan refugees in the Northwest Frontier Province, Pakistan. The purpose of this study was to assess the reproductive health needs of an Afghan refugee population.
The 12 Afghan refugee camps had a population of 134,000. Women of reproductive age (15-49) were randomly selected and 472 women completed the face-to-face interview. Descriptive analysis was completed on a variety of reproductive health factors.
Among the respondents 22% stated that they were currently pregnant and that 63% had received antenatal care. Unmet need for family planning among currently pregnant women showed that 43%had an unmet need for spacing and 20% had an unmet need for limiting childbirth. Current use of family planning methods showed that 9% of the women were using contraception and 67% of those women reported using the injection method. Other reproductive health indicators showed that 35% of the respondents complained of abnormal vaginal discharge within the last 12 months and that 70% of those women sought treatment. Knowledge of HIV/AIDS was reported among 22% of the women.
These results highlight the use of reproductive health measures as a way of assessing the health needs within a refugee community. Health behaviors and access to health care services should be studied jointly to provide a comprehensive view of the needs of a community. Health care programs should bear in mind the social, religious and cultural diversity of the refugee community.
Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation the audience will be able to: 1) describe the methods used to assess reproductive health, 2) discuss cultural issues that limit access to reproductive health services and 3) plan appropriate strategies to reduce barriers.
Keywords: Survey, Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.