Effectiveness of a Multi-Component Modular Intervention on Morbidity patterns among Beedi Rollers in Kateel village of Dakshina Kannada district

The study titled "Effectiveness of a Multi-Component Modular Intervention on Morbidity Patterns among Beedi Rollers in Kateel Village of Dakshina Kannada District" focuses on reducing occupational health issues among beedi rollers using a structured educational intervention. Beedi rolling is a labor-intensive, low-income, home-based occupation predominantly carried out by socioeconomically disadvantaged women. These workers are continuously exposed to tobacco dust, poor posture, inadequate ventilation, and lack of protective equipment, leading to high rates of respiratory illnesses, musculoskeletal pain, skin conditions, and reproductive health problems.

The study will be conducted in two phases. Phase I uses qualitative methods, including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), to explore health perceptions, morbidity patterns, and barriers to health care seeking among beedi rollers and stakeholders. Based on the findings, a multi-component educational module will be developed. The module will address occupational health risks, personal hygiene, protective measures, nutrition, early symptom recognition, and awareness of government schemes. It will be delivered through audiovisual presentations, flipcharts, and mobile phone message reinforcements.

In Phase II, a cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted across 8 villages, enrolling 304 beedi rollers equally divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive the module at baseline, 3, and 6 months, while both groups will be assessed at baseline, 3, 6, and 9 months. The study will use a validated tool to evaluate musculoskeletal, respiratory, and skin symptoms, functional disability, and general health. Physical and biochemical measurements, including BMI, hemoglobin, and blood pressure will also be measured.

The data collected will be analyzed to assess changes over time within and between groups. The study anticipates that the intervention will lead to a significant reduction in morbidity prevalence, improvement in functional health status, and better health-seeking behavior among beedi rollers.