Current Perspectives on Health Status and Non-Communicable Diseases among Tribals in Chhota Udepur District of Gujarat.

BACKGROUND

There are 698 Scheduled Tribes in India, accounting for 8.6% of the country's population and covering 15% of its area. In Gujarat State, Scheduled Tribes constitute 14.75% of the total population. A comprehensive survey would provide essential data to design targeted healthcare interventions, improve access, and address disparities, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for the tribal population.

AIM AND

OBJECTIVES

This survey was aimed to explore the living conditions, dietary habits, sociodemographic profiles, the nature and frequency of prevalent diseases, and other information related to the health status of the tribes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the scheduled tribe population of Chhota Udepur district of Gujarat for 9 months, from July 2021 to March 2022. Information about their sociodemographic characteristics, risk factor profile, and prevalence of non-communicable disorders was collected in a structured format by direct interview technique.

RESULTS

The study revealed that 928 (57.14%) of houses were semi-pucca, 2225 (58.83%) of adults were illiterate, 169 (10.73%) of males and 68 (4.32%) of females had grade I hypertension, 105 (15.72%) of males and 148 (22.15%) of females had moderate anemia, 91 (12.28%) were pre-diabetic, and 317 (14.14%) of children had recurrent skin infections.

CONCLUSION

The findings underscore socioeconomic hurdles due to poverty and other factors. Health issues like anemia, overweight, hypertension, and infections persist, influenced by factors such as poor hygiene and inadequate access to healthcare. Challenges require holistic approaches, including improved education, healthcare access, livelihood opportunities, and awareness programs focusing on hygiene and nutrition.