Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC), a non-governmental organisation, has emphasised the urgent need to respond to the economic and environmental impacts on the health of Nigerian women to address them for a better society.
This came to the fore at a panel discussion during the National Executive Council Meeting of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, which had the theme: “Advancing Women’s Health, Including Maternal and Child Health Outcomes for a Sustainable Future.”
The Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) organised the panel discussions to address women’s health challenges and how to mitigate them in the country.
LEADERSHIP reports that the national gathering of health practitioners, experts, and scientists from across Nigeria aims to raise women’s awareness about how economic and environmental stressors affect their health.
The experts who spoke are Dr Sayita Wakissa of Gender and Education Research, Dr Sa’adatu Baba of Energy and Environment Research, Dr Nanbam Goshit, a Clinical Psychologist, and Roseline Adanchin, vice president of the National Council for Women Societies, among others.
In their separate submissions, panellists explained the environmental impact on mental health, the effects of climate change on women’s health, the role of gender in women’s responses to health issues, and strategies for women to prioritise their health, among other topics.
They further emphasised the need for women to adhere to professional advice on addressing the economic and environmental stressors affecting their health.
Similarly, Dr Plangsat Dayil, a gender expert and consultant for dRPC, also highlighted how women can overcome economic and environmental challenges.
She stressed that records have shown that women in Nigeria face numerous economic challenges and environmental stressors that intersect with societal and cultural factors.
According to her, this intersection not only exacerbates existing health issues but also creates significant barriers to accessing essential healthcare services.
