Community-based research and advocay on health among poor women in Davao City, Philippines

Abstract

This paper focuses on the research process adopted by a non-governmental organisation to carry out a community-based study of reproductive morbidity and other women's health problems. The research and report-back process were made interactive through women interviewers from the community, and using community theatre, assemblies and orientation workshops for women and men. The findings of this research on the extent of women's health problems have been made an integral part of the community's knowledge about itself and influenced local health policy. We are currently in the process of evolving a health intervention programme to address some of the unmet needs brought to light by this study.