Nutrition, Lifestyle and Health Status Among Tribal Communities: A Case Study of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group of Kerala

Abstract

Tribal populations, in general, are generally lagging behind in social-economic spheres of lives as they are at different stages of social and economic development compared to the remaining population. Health and nutritional inequities are higher among tribal population in our country. Poor relationship with environment, undernutrition and newly acquired lifestyle factors makes them very vulnerable compared to the general population. The review exercise showed that nutritional status and factors associated with geographical variations were not studied especially among the particularly vulnerable tribal groups in Kerala. Hence, this study was conducted to develop the bio profile of Kattunayakan tribes in Kerala and associate their nutritional status with several factors along with their health-seeking behaviors. The study followed a community-based cross-sectional approach using a mixed- method, which is both qualitative and quantitative in nature. The field survey was conducted in Wayanad district in Kerala where more than 85% of the Kattunayakans’ population lives. The sample size is calculated as 238. The Kattunayakan community has always been deprived of creche and basic facilities, which has forced them to remain underdeveloped in most aspects of life. The findings of this study have shown a steady social and nutritional transition among the tribes. The determinants that affect the nutrition status most are education, occupation, income, housing conditions and lifestyle. An overall improvement in the quality of life by improving determinants like education, occupation and access to health care is suggested to improve the nutritional status and health indicators of the community.