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Prevalence of Morbidity and Healthcare-Seeking Behavior among the Chuktia Bhunjia, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in Western Odisha
Debaprakash Patra, Arpita Santra and Bharathi Karri
Published: 2026/06/01
Abstract
The Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of India experience a high burden of morbidity due to their geographic isolation, limited access to healthcare, and persistent socioeconomic disadvantages. These conditions not only shape the types of illnesses they face, but also influence their healthcare-seeking behavior. The present study sought to examine the prevalence of morbidity and the associated healthcare-seeking behavior of adult males and females belonging to the Chuktia Bhunjia PVTG residing in the Nuapada district of Western Odisha, India. The study incorporated a total of 112 adults aged 18–80 years belonging to the Chuktia Bhunjia community, comprising 55 males and 57 females. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to document self-reported and clinically diagnosed morbidities over six months. Healthcare-seeking behavior was classified into modern, traditional, informal, and no care sought categories. Results showed that musculoskeletal disorders and general symptoms (such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, etc.) were most prevalent, followed by respiratory problems. Non-communicable diseases were emerging, with hypertension at 17% and diabetes at 1.8%. Correspondence analysis revealed that healthcare-seeking varied by condition, with modern care primarily used for respiratory, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal problems, traditional healers consulted for ear and oral ailments, dermatological and minor complaints often managed through informal care, and hepatic, deficiency-related, and eye conditions largely left untreated. The findings highlight a substantial burden of physical and general morbidity and selective utilization of healthcare systems. Interventions should integrate culturally sensitive health education, strengthen primary care, and collaborate with traditional healers to improve health outcomes among this PVTG.
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