Demographic characteristics and health-seeking behaviour among Scheduled Tribes in West Tripura, Tripura: a cross-sectional study

Background: Health-seeking behaviour (HSB) refers to the actions undertaken by individuals who perceive a health problem or illness and seek appropriate healthcare services or treatment. Understanding HSB and risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among tribal populations is essential for planning effective public health interventions. This study assessed the demographic profile, socio-economic characteristics, lifestyle practices, healthcare-seeking behaviour, and prevalence of NCD risk factors among the Scheduled Tribe (ST) population of West Tripura district, Tripura. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2021 to March 2022 after Institutional Ethics Committee approval. Six ST-dominated villages in West Tripura district were selected. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, education, living conditions, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, addiction, and healthcare-seeking behaviour were collected through house-to-house surveys using a pretested structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 5,829 individuals were surveyed, including 2,930 males and 2,899 females. The population included 1,461 children (771 males and 690 females). Poor living conditions, inadequate sanitation, unhealthy lifestyle practices, and low socio-economic status were identified as major determinants of disease burden. Although Tripura's literacy rate (87.22%) exceeded the national average (72.98%), 42.40% of participants reported gutkha or pan masala consumption, indicating a major behavioural risk factor for NCDs. Improved healthcare utilization and health status were observed, likely reflecting the positive impact of tribal welfare schemes. Conclusions: Socio-economic conditions, lifestyle behaviours, and healthcare accessibility significantly influence health-seeking behaviour and NCD risk among the tribal population of West Tripura. Strengthening health education, tobacco-control strategies, and tribal welfare programmes may further improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of NCDs.