Rachand, Sheikhupura, Pakistan – On September 15, 2024, STEP, as part of its Weaver Empowerment Initiative, partnered with the Ravish Organization to host a medical camp aimed at improving the health of local carpet weavers in Pakistan. Held at the Government Community Model High School in Rachand, the camp provided critical healthcare services to weavers and their families, addressing both immediate medical needs and long-term health challenges.
A Collaborative Effort for Weavers’ Well-Being
STEP has been addressing health risks for weavers for years, including issues like breast cancer, epidemics, and musculoskeletal problems common in weaving communities. Responding to weavers’ requests for professional medical care, STEP partnered with Ravish, a student-led NGO active in 18 medical colleges across Pakistan, to provide direct healthcare services to this underserved group.
Delivering Healthcare to Rachand’s Weaving Community
Rachand is a small village to the north of Pakistan and is home to over 7,000 residents, many of whom are weavers working for local contractors. The camp in Rachand focused on addressing the immediate healthcare needs of these artisans and their families, providing them with free medical consultations and medicines. A team of six medical doctors and 11 final-year medical student volunteers provided free consultations and medicines to 137 individuals, with female weavers making up the majority of those treated. The breakdown included 99 women and 38 men, reflecting the demographics of the local weaving workforce.
Common health concerns among the weavers included scabies and malnutrition across all age groups. Female weavers were found to suffer from vitamin deficiencies, menstrual problems, and musculoskeletal issues, while male weavers faced conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and substance addiction. In addition to providing treatments, the medical team offered vital guidance on managing these conditions in the future.
A Continuing Focus on Health
STEP has organized many health initiatives over the years to improve the well-being of weavers. However, this first-time partnership STEP with Ravish marked a new collaboration dedicated to delivering medical services directly to weavers in this region. This initiative is part of STEP’s broader efforts to raise awareness about common health issues, minimize occupational hazards, and create a support network that makes it easier for weavers to access the care they need. Through ongoing programs like these, STEP continues to empower weavers, helping them improve their health and well-being.
