Publication:

Socio-demographic and health profile of schedule tribes of Velugodu, Andhra Pradesh, India

Background Scheduled Tribes live in unique physical, socio-economic and cultural environment, isolated from general population. The tribal population is at a higher risk of under-nutrition, because of the socio-cultural, socio-economic and environmental factors influencing the food intake and health seeking behavior. Inadequate health care facilities, illiteracy and socio-economic disadvantage among tribal populations perpetuate the vicious cycle of under nutrition.

Methods A pre-tested questionnaire containing information on household socio-economic and demographic particulars like type of family, religion, caste, age, gender, income, literacy, occupation was administered by paying house to house visits. A detailed clinical examination for assessment of nutritional status, history, signs and symptoms of current illness was carried.

Results 92% of the families are nuclear followed by joint, 3 generation and extended families. The average size of the family is 3.64. 97% practice Hinduism. The sex ratio is 987 females for 1000 males. 72% of the populations are illiterate. 40% of the populations earn their livelihood by collecting NTFP. 59% of under-fives, 30% of school going and adolescents and 60% of adults are under nourished.

Conclusions Socio demographic profile is similar to other Schedule Tribes and chenchu populations in India and other parts of Andhra Pradesh. Under nutrition is high among under-fives and adults. Scabies, anaemia and eruptive fevers are the common health problems after malnutrition.