Assessing the Impact of Social Factors on Women’s Health in Dominican Republic Bateyes
Mentor Information
Lindy Davidson (Judy Genshaft Honors College)
Description
Women living in Dominican Republic bateyes (rural communities around a sugar mill) have systematically experienced discrimination in the area of education and economic opportunities, which has compromised their health to a great extent. There is limited awareness of how the lack of access to education can be the root of malfeasance when considering the health of women in these bateyes. This issue will be addressed through a comprehensive analysis of previous study findings, data from current community initiatives, and personal accounts of women who experience health disparities. Preliminary findings suggest that a lack of access to education and economic opportunity leads to a greater risk of diseases like HIV/AIDS, dangerous pregnancies, and poor general health. Findings also suggest that discriminatory government policies contribute to the repression of women in the bateyes. Exploration of this issue will lead to a greater understanding of how social factors contribute to health disparities in the bateyes. Furthermore, increasing awareness of this issue in the international community can enable global health leaders to take action and encourage the Dominican Republic to enact policy changes, education reform, and healthcare equity.
Assessing the Impact of Social Factors on Women’s Health in Dominican Republic Bateyes
Women living in Dominican Republic bateyes (rural communities around a sugar mill) have systematically experienced discrimination in the area of education and economic opportunities, which has compromised their health to a great extent. There is limited awareness of how the lack of access to education can be the root of malfeasance when considering the health of women in these bateyes. This issue will be addressed through a comprehensive analysis of previous study findings, data from current community initiatives, and personal accounts of women who experience health disparities. Preliminary findings suggest that a lack of access to education and economic opportunity leads to a greater risk of diseases like HIV/AIDS, dangerous pregnancies, and poor general health. Findings also suggest that discriminatory government policies contribute to the repression of women in the bateyes. Exploration of this issue will lead to a greater understanding of how social factors contribute to health disparities in the bateyes. Furthermore, increasing awareness of this issue in the international community can enable global health leaders to take action and encourage the Dominican Republic to enact policy changes, education reform, and healthcare equity.
