Dhaka: International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B), an international public health research organization based in Bangladesh, today organized a dissemination seminar on sexual and reproductive health to raise awareness among the adolescents of Bangladesh and address their health challenges. The seminar titled ‘Journey to Evidence: Series Dissemination of AdSEARCH Innovation – Round One’ was held today at ICDDR,B’s Sasakawa auditorium here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event presented findings from four research studies focused on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for adolescents in Bangladesh. The studies, funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), were conducted aiming to address the SRHR challenges faced by adolescents in the country. One of the key findings was from the HopeBox intervention, a toolkit designed for orphaned adolescent girls. The study showed significant improvements in knowledge about menstrual hygiene and contraception, with post-intervention knowledge of modern contraception increasing to 51%-59%.
Syed Rubayet, Country Director of Ipas Bangladesh, emphasized the long-standing neglect of sexual and reproductive health services for adolescents, particularly orphaned adolescents. He advocated for initiatives that address their health needs. Professor Farhana Dewan, President of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Bangladesh (OGSB), committed to reaching orphaned adolescents through adolescent-friendly corners.
Another study focused on Mukhorito, a mobile app created to educate adolescents on SRHR topics, revealed that the app led to a 16% improvement in adolescents’ knowledge. The app helped reduce social stigma and encouraged open discussions on reproductive health and related issues. Professor Sayeba Akhter, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC), highlighted the importance of maintaining health regulations for adolescent girls to ensure a healthy future generation.
The third study, conducted with female athletes of Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), revealed that 86% of participants lacked adequate menstrual health education. The study called for improved support systems, including better policies and education on menstrual health for adolescent athletes. International Sports Development Consultant Professor Anupam Hossain stressed the importance of removing barriers for female athletes to ensure their continued success.
The fourth study on menstrual cup usage among female workers in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector revealed that menstrual cups have been a cost-effective and comfortable solution for managing menstruation. Farzana Sultana, Development Advisor at Global Affairs Canada (GAC), reiterated the Canadian government’s commitment to advancing SRHR in Bangladesh.
The seminar highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to improve adolescent health in Bangladesh. Key officials from the Directorate General of Health Services, Directorate General of Family Planning, and other relevant institutions attended the event, which included panel discussions on future strategies for addressing these issues.