Ss48-01 Health Issues in the Fishermen of Bangladesh

Abstract Introduction Fishing is one of the most important economic sectors in Bangladesh. Fishermen here are not only doing one of the most dangerous professions, but also belong to the most vulnerable and poorest communities, with very limited access to medical care. The aim of this study was to understand the health status and the health risk factors present in Bangladesh fishermen. The field research was done at the Mohipur and Alipur fish landing center in Patuakhali District, Bangladesh as a parallel activity for the ‘The fishSAFE 2025 Fishing Safety Intervention Program - Phase 1: Bangladesh’ in January 10-16, 2020. Artisanal fishing is the main type of fishing and net fishing is the most dominant for the local fishing communities. Four fishing vessels are used that are 12–17 meters long and 3.5–4.5 meters wide. The safety is often neglected and the living conditions on board are very poor. Materials and methods A total of 93 seafarers and their spouses were interviewed. A cursory medical examination was provided ,as conditions of the facilities allowed. Results The main health issues among fishermen and their spouses are allergic and pulmonary diseases, abdominal problems most probably connected with the pollution of the drinking water, eye diseases and musculoskeletal complains. Conclusions The difficult working and poor living conditions are often leading to different health issues of the Bangladesh fishermen and their families. More research is needed to establish health assistance and health promotion programs for them.