The Impact of Socio-Economic Status of Rural Women on their Health: A Case Study of Panyango Sub-county Nebbi District

Abstract

ONGEI FRANCIS (2010-M083-10042) The Impact of Socio-Economic Status of Rural Women on their Health: A Case Study of Panyango Sub-county Nebbi District This study was undertaken to establish the effect of socio-economic status of rural women on their health. The main purpose of this study was to establish the relationship, if any, which exists between socio-economic status of rural women and their health. Three facets of socio-economic status were selected, namely; education, income levels and socio-cultural practices. Research objectives were used to guide the study as guiding tools. The specific objectives were, to find out the effects of women‟s level of education on their health; to establish the impact of income of women on their health and to assess how socio-cultural practices affect women‟s health. One of the major justifications to the study is that, it will prompt the policy makers and other stakeholders to address the socio-economic needs of rural women in a bid to improve their health conditions and make them aware in defending their rights. Related literature works were sought to establish the efforts put in closing the gap between socio-economic status and the health condition of rural women on hand. The study took both qualitative and quantitative designs. The study subjects were purposively selected using cluster sampling method and simple random sampling technique. Interviews, questionnaires, observations and Focus Group Discussion were used as data collection tools. The findings of the study revealed that the various socio-economic facets had impact on the health and general wellbeing of women especially rural women. It is, therefore, recommended that relevant and basic learning curriculum, relevant competent facilitators and appropriate investing and financing options should be devised by the policy makers and other stakeholders to improve on the socio-economic wellbeing of rural women so as to enable them earn a better living, where their rights and status are respected and observed by other members of the society. Key Words: Socio-Economic Status, Rural Women, Health, Nebbi District.