Socio-Economic Burden and Coping Strategies of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Patients in Below-Poverty-Line Households: A Cross-Sectional Study in Karnataka, South India

Background Non-communicable diseases NCDs significantly impact below-poverty-line BPL households leading to financial distress and perpetuating poverty in India.nbspAim This study assessed the direct and indirect costs of managing non-communicable diseases the socioeconomic burden of NCDs and the coping mechanisms adopted by BPL households in Karnataka.Methods A cross-sectional study involving 300 participants from four selected districts in Karnataka state was conducted using mixed methods. Data on healthcare costs coping mechanisms and socio-economic factors were collected through structured questionnaires.Results The average annual healthcare cost per household was 15000 with 70 experiencing catastrophic health expenditures. Coping strategies included borrowing 45 and asset liquidation 25. Women faced higher financial and caregiving burdens while 61 of participants relied on public healthcare due to affordability.Conclusion NCDs impose a substantial financial burden on BPL households compounded by gender disparities and contemptible healthcare infrastructure. The paper underscores the need for low-cost health insurance improved women-centric healthcare access and culturally sensitive health interventions to reduce the economic burden.