Primary Submission Category: Health equity
A Qualitative Evaluation of Determinants of Health in Varanasi, India
Authors: Janay Johnson Alekhya Errapothu Anastasia Ferko Alexie Oppermann Meghna Pandey Tulsi Patel Lydia Walter Elisabeth Maring
Presenting Author: Janay Johnson*
Public Health Beyond Borders (PHBB), a student organization supported by a Big Ten university’s School of Public Health, partners with communities globally to design and implement health interventions. The PHBB-India project conducted needs assessment interviews in Varanasi, India. Though there is a large university and hospital, Varanasi residents’ social determinants (e.g., income, education, access to adequate healthcare) vary. Interviews were conducted at three locations: Southpoint School (SS), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), and Men’s Action for Stopping Violence Against Women (MASVAW). Our goal was to assess community health through individuals’ perceptions of issues and needs. Interview topics included: stress, nutrition, physical activity, healthcare, hygiene, environmental issues, bullying, discrimination, community violence, and violence against women. The needs assessment was administered to 65 participants, divided into 9 focus groups and 15 individual interviews. Participants were recruited from three populations: SS teachers and secondary students (n=12), BHU Master’s students (n=40), and MASVAW (n=13). Data was coded thematically and analyzed in Dedoose. Analysis of interviews and focus groups revealed three prevalent issues. While the government has instituted policies to address the widespread issue of pollution, participants believe it is up to citizens to effect change. Access and quality of healthcare differ between private and government facilities and in semi-rural versus urban areas. Women, religious minorities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are especially at risk for discrimination and prejudice. Despite advancements in gender equality education, women are still expected to fulfill traditional gender roles within their community. PHBB-India plans to use needs assessment information to design health interventions for future interactions with our partner community in Varanasi, India.