Community Health Assessment for Identifying and Prioritizing Health Issues in a Southwestern City of Iran

Background and aims: This study aimed to evaluate the community health of Taganak in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, focusing on identifying and prioritizing health-related challenges faced by residents. Utilizing the 8-stage North Carolina model, the assessment incorporated active community participation and a systematic evaluation process. This process included the formation of assessment teams, data collection, analysis of findings, and the development of operational plans to address the identified key issues. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the fall of 2023. Overall, 195 residents (mean age 43.29±15.13 years; 56% female) were involved in this study, and interviews were included with seven city managers. Participants were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Data collection methods encompassed surveys, interviews, and secondary sources, including health statistics from local health centers. Results: The assessment identified 34 significant issues across six domains, including health, education, economy, urban services, security, and social rights. The highest priorities included unemployment (average score: 10), poor economic conditions (9.8), and addiction (9.5). Approximately 45% of participants rated their health as good; however, 66.1% deemed the city unsuitable for children, and 50% found it inappropriate for the elderly. Furthermore, 71.3% reported a lack of economic opportunities, and 52% perceived the city as unsafe. Finally, concerns regarding drinking water pollution and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, were also prominent. Conclusion: This study underscores a diverse array of economic, social, and cultural challenges facing Taganak, with unemployment identified as the predominant issue. Accordingly, effectively addressing these challenges will necessitate collaborative efforts among government officials and local stakeholders.