Rising women’s health problems in Hyderabad slums brings attention to overworked ASHA workers

A recent community health survey conducted by the Hyderabad non-governmental organization (HHF) shows that the increased growth in reproductive and non-transmitted health issues among women in urban slums in Hyderabad has attracted attention for the critical but burdensome role of recognized social health activists (ASHAS).

Of the more than 22,000 women screening primary health centers run by HHF, the survey found that 40% of women suffer from irregular menstruation, while polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the main concern. This hormonal disorder is often driven by diet and a sedentary lifestyle, affecting 40% of puberty girls and nearly 50% of adult women among the surveyed population.

“At the heart of this outreach system are ASHA workers, community-based healthcare providers responsible for a range of services, from antenatal care and immunisation to monitoring non-communicable diseases and conducting following-ups. However, with the surge in complex health conditions, ASHA workers are finding themselves increasingly stretched thin,” said Mujtaba Hasan Askari, founder of Helping Hand Foundation.

Telangana is home to nearly 30,000 ASHAs, of which about 2,500 are registered and actively serving in Hyderabad, a senior health official said. As the backbone of community-level health care, ASHA plays a vital role in maternal and child health, immunity and disease prevention. They are often the first point of contact for healthcare in underserved areas.

The report also highlights that 22% of adolescent girls are anemia, while nearly half (45%) suffer from anemia. Pregnancy-related complications are very common, with 15% of women experiencing hypertension caused by pregnancy, 11% of them having gestational diabetes, postpartum disease is common, 24% of them reporting high blood pressure, 20% of depression and 43% of people with depression suffering from persistent physical discomfort and pain.

Mr Mujtaba Askari further added that Ashas are the backbone of the major health networks, but they are overworked and underresourced. From neonatal care to chronic diseases, their bandwidth is very limited.

Given that most of these health conditions can be prevented through timely awareness and lifestyle interventions, experts believe that investing in ASHA workers is crucial. HHF recommends the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) based on neonatal and maternal health tools, increasing training for reproductive health consultations, and most importantly, improving ASHAS wages and working conditions.