Health impacts of pedestrian head-loading: A review of the evidence with particular reference to women and children in sub-Saharan Africa

Gina Porter*, Kate Hampshire, Christine Dunn, Richard Hall, Martin Levesley, Kim Burton, Steve Robson, Albert Abane, Mwenza Blell, Julia Panther

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Across sub-Saharan Africa, women and children play major roles as pedestrian load-transporters, in the widespread absence of basic sanitation services, electricity and affordable/reliable motorised transport. The majority of loads, including water and firewood for domestic purposes, are carried on the head. Load-carrying has implications not only for school attendance and performance, women's time budgets and gender relations, but arguably also for health and well-being. We report findings from a comprehensive review of relevant literature, undertaken June-September 2012, focussing particularly on biomechanics, maternal health, and the psycho-social impacts of load-carrying; we also draw from our own research. Key knowledge gaps and areas for future research are highlighted. •Across Africa, women and children play major roles as head-loaders.•Head-loading may have serious detrimental health impacts, but research is limited and inconclusive.•Head-loading represents a potentially huge, hitherto unrecognised, public health issue in Africa.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)90-97
Number of pages8
JournalSocial Science and Medicine
Volume88
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2013

Keywords

  • Africa
  • Biomechanical
  • Gender
  • Load-carrying
  • Maternal health
  • Pain
  • Psycho-social
  • Transport

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • History and Philosophy of Science

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