Child work in livestock farming in Bukidnon: Determinants and associated health consequences

• Main Author: Nieva, Romulo F., Jr.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2014
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/4650
• Institution: De La Salle University

Child work in agriculture is a widespread phenomenon. Countries all throughout the regions are being propelled to address the health and social needs of this vulnerable population. This study aimed to describe rural childrens participation in livestock farming specifically their roles and level of participation. It also investigated the factors that shape childrens participation, the knowledge of the health and safety risks and associated health consequences. The study utilized the survey method among a sample of 100 child workers in livestock farms located in Bukidnon, Philippines. Data were analyzed using the frequency distribution, cross-tabulation methods and inferential statistics. Findings of the study reveal that child workers had a moderate level of knowledge of the health and safety risks related to livestock farming. Moreover, the findings suggest that the livestock farming activities among these child workers varied. That is, while some were involved in high-risk livestock farming activities, such as administering vaccines to livestock, others were involved in less risky activities, such as feeding and disposing animal wastes. Generally, rural children were highly involved in livestock farm activities that were considered low-risk such as feeding, herding and maintaining sanitation among others. Sociodemographic characteristics such as sex of the child, sex of household head and household size predicted their level of participation on both low and high-risk livestock farming activities. As to health consequences, data indicate that these included ergonomic and chemically-induced health outcomes. Overall frequency of health consequences was statistically significantly associated with level of knowledge and the level of participation in livestock farming activities. Furthermore, the results highlight the largely informal and traditional health seeking behavior among child workers in relation to their health problems. Health services should focus their attention to vulnerable population sub-groups, such as rural children working in livestock farms.