Health Status Evaluation of Female Street Vendors of Patna Town, Bihar

Abstract

In the present day, customers frequently purchasing from street vendors or hawkers, as they offer necessary goods at reasonable prices and in accessible locations. However, these street vendors, particularly female street vendors, face numerous serious obstacles including social, economic, and health-related issues. The objective of this investigation is to ascertain the health conditions and occupational vulnerabilities that women who are employed in this field encounter. The primary data was collected through a field survey, which was restricted to a maximum of 100 respondents. The data collected was analysed and represented using a bar diagram, pie chart, and percentage analysis. The key findings indicate that women are primarily affected by one or more health issues, work long hours and have been mistreated by government employees, and tend to seek private health care more often than public health services. This results in a decrease in their purchasing power, which in turn decreases their ability to purchase other basic necessities and ultimately reduces their standard of living. It also addresses the factors that contribute to the underutilisation of public healthcare services. Consequently, it is recommended that the government implement superior policies and programs that address the financial needs of businesses, thereby enhancing the standard of living of the women who work in this sector. Additionally, policies should be implemented that ensure the children of women in this field have access to a sufficient education. Attention should be given to the maintenance of hygiene at public places and awareness program should be implemented.