The launch of the 2024 Ethnic Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) was successfully held in Bangkok and Mae Sot, Thailand. The event brought together representatives from ethnic health organizations, humanitarian partners, and civil society to present the survey’s key findings and discuss their implications for health and well-being in Burma’s conflict-affected ethnic areas.
The 2024 EDHS is the most comprehensive, population-based assessment conducted since the 2021 military coup. Drawing on data from more than 3,100 households and 15,000 individuals, it provides a critical look into how communities are coping with overlapping crises—including political instability, economic hardship, and rising health needs.
Key Findings from the 2024 EDHS
- 24% of households experienced death or injury due to conflict.
- 49% reported income loss.
- 41% of respondents showed symptoms of depression; 8% reported moderate to severe depression.
- 66% of communities reported no access to humanitarian assistance.
- 40% of households experienced moderate or severe food insecurity.
- 36% of households reported migration in the past year, with 68% of migrants under 25 years old.
- 90% of women accessed at least one antenatal care (ANC) visit; 45% reached 4+ ANC visits.
- Infant mortality: 62 per 1,000 live births; under-five mortality: 85 per 1,000 live births (twice the national average).
- Hypertension affected 37% of women and 33% of men, with low treatment access.
- 93% of communities are led by village committees; 71% face difficulties accessing healthcare.
Strategic Implications
- Equity and Inclusion: The poorest and most remote communities remain most at risk.
- Community-led Systems: Ethnic and local organizations must be supported with capacity and infrastructure.
- Mental Health and Social Protection: Urgent gaps demand investment in psychological care, disability support, and livelihood recovery.
- Locally Anchored Assistance: Community-based approaches and cross-border collaboration are vital to reaching crisis-affected populations.
A Call to Action
The 2024 EDHS highlights the resilience of ethnic communities in Burma amid overlapping crises. By prioritizing equity, community systems, and locally grounded aid, there is an opportunity to safeguard health gains and build more inclusive systems for the future.