Basic health, women's health, and mental health among internally displaced persons in Nyala Province, South Darfur, Sudan.
Author: Kim G, Torbay R, Lawry L.
Source:
American Journal of Public Health, 97(2), 353-361
OBJECTIVES: We assessed basic health, women's health, and mental health among
Sudanese internally displaced persons in South Darfur. METHODS: In January 2005,
we surveyed 6 registered internally displaced persons camps in Nyala District.
Using systematic random sampling, we surveyed 1293 households, interviewing 1
adult female per household (N=1274); respondents' households totaled 8643
members. We inquired about respondents' mental health, opinions on women's
rights, and the health status of household members. RESULTS: A majority of
respondents had access to rations, shelter, and water. Sixty-eight percent (861
of 1266) used no birth control, and 53% (614 of 1147) reported at least 1
unattended birth. Thirty percent (374 of 1238) shared spousal decisions on timing
and spacing of children, and 49% (503 of 1027) reported the right to refuse sex.
Eighty-four percent (1043 of 1240) were circumcised. The prevalence of major
depression was 31% (390 of 1253). Women also expressed limited rights regarding
marriage, movement, and access to health care. Eighty-eight percent (991 of 1121)
supported equal educational opportunities for women. CONCLUSIONS: Humanitarian
aid has relieved a significant burden of this displaced population's basic needs.
However, mental and women's health needs remain largely unmet. The findings
indicate a limitation of sexual and reproductive rights that may negatively
affect health.
Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't