Occupational Health Hazards of Women Beedi Rollers in Nippani Taluk, South India

Abstract

In this study, we surveyed 47 women beedi workers of Nippani, a place in North Karnataka of India known for tobacco trade and industries. We found that this labor intensive task has led to enormous health conditions in the women involved in rolling the beedis manually. Respiratory problems like cough and throat burns were reported by more than 50% of women. The incidence of Orthopedic and Ophthalmic illness was also common. Other health conditions included GI problems, Giddiness and Headache. Keywords— Beedi-workers, Tobacco, Respiratory problems, orthopedic problems, Indian small scale industry.