A public health campaing – health promotion in Roma minority population in the City of Zagreb

Abstract

Abstract Background Researchers into health inequalities consistently show disadvantages in health status for various ethnic minority groups. Socially and economically Roma are one of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. The Roma population of Zagreb approximates 2.755 according to the 2011 census. “Health promotion in Roma minority” is public health initiative undertaken in the City of Zagreb in 2018. Objectives The aim was to recognize the need for early risk factors prevention, to increase health literacy and to improve access to health-care in Roma minority. The stakeholders involved in this program were Roma NGOs, Andrija Stampar Institute of Public Health, local Medical Centre and City office for health. The role of Roma activist was inportant for including Roma population. Results In order to assess the health status and health-related lifestyle attributes a multidisciplinary approach was carried out including a total of 141 members of the Roma minority living in three different quarters. Activities included preventive exams, conducted workshops “Reproductive health”, “Access right to health-care”and “Healthy lifestyles”. Hypertension was found in 15,6% Roma using standard diagnostic criteria (i.e. BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg). High blood shugar was found in 16,3% Roma. Screening mammography exams were also carried out including 73 Roma women over 50. BI-RADS 3 category was found in 17 women (23,3%) and BI-RADS 4 + 5 category was found in one woman. Conclusions The multisectoral collaboration and the involment of Roma activist could help to achieve better inclusion of Roma population, better perception of the health messages and behavioural changes. Health sector should promote and advocate for healthier lifestyle, but community and policy are to support and complement the actions. Access to health care cannot be discussed in isolation from other problems this population group experiences, such as poverty, restricted access to education and social exclusion. Key messages The empowerment is an outcome of health literacy, but does not automatically lead to empowerment. Individual’s social and cultural context must be in focus. The involment of Roma activist could help to achieve better results.