AdSEARCH supports the largest survey to assess obstetric fistula burden in Bangladesh to MIFWOH
The orientation programme for the study "Prevalence of Persistent Fistula-Related Disorder (PFRD) in three Divisions of Bangladesh: Introducing a survey tool to assess the need for rehabilitation and acceptability of alternative treatment: A mixed-method study" took place on 14 December 2023, at Sitakunda Upazila Health Complex, Chattogram. The programme was jointly organised by MAMM'S Institute of Fistula & Women's Health (MIFWOH) and AdSEARCH by icddr,b.
With technical support from AdSEARCH, the study conducted one of the largest community-based household surveys in Bangladesh considering more than 60,000 women of reproductive age with a birth history as participants of the survey. Furthermore, AdSEARCH is contributing to the development of a digital registrar system strengthen the documentation for obstetric fistula.
Participants were screened for obstetric fistula and prolapse and invited suspected fistula and prolapse cases to the fistula camp for further diagnosis and confirmation. This study offers confirmed fistula and prolapse patients to come to MIFWOH at Dhaka for further treatment with no cost at all.
Dr Mohammad Mohiuddin, Divisional Director of the DGHS, Chittagong Division, and Dr Mohammed Elias Chowdhury, Civil Surgeon of Chittagong district, along with medical officers, UP chairmen, and other civil society representatives, attended the programme. In the orientation, Professor Dr Sayeba Akhter, the founder and CEO of MIFWOH, narrated the objectives, activities and importance of this study. AdSEARCH presented the findings of the household survey and highlighted its role.
