HEALTH STATUS OF ACCREDIATED SOCIAL HEALTH ACTIVISTS (ASHAS) IN A TALUK OF RAICHUR DISTRICT, KARNATAKA: A CROSS – SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Accrediated Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are the link between the community and health system in India. While their role in improving maternal and child health is well documented, little attention has been given to their own health status. Objectives: To study socio-demographic profile of ASHAs, To study health status and morbidity pattern of ASHAs. Methodology: A cross sectional study conducted among ASHA workers, a pretested questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic profile, morbidity status, nutritional status and mental health. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 IBM. Analyzed data is presented as descriptive statistics with suitable graphical and tabular form. Categorical data is presented as proportions and continuous data is presented as mean and SD. Results: A total of 301 ASHA workers were participated. The mean age was 37.4+ 7.7years. Common morbidities included Hypertension (10%), Diabetes Mellitus (21%), Nutritional assessment showed 114(37.8%) were overweight, 223(74%) were having moderate to severe stress. Conclusion: The majority of ASHAs in this study were in the age range of 31 to 40 years, were married, belonging to rural areas. Hypertension & diabetes were the common chronic illness noted in the ASHAs, there was high prevalence of obesity among ASHAs. Notably low prevalence of pallor and dental caries seen in the ASHAs. Majority of ASHAs had moderate to low level of work stress.