Dietary Diversity, Iron Status, and Anaemia Among Adivasi Women: Insights from the chiguru Cohort in Chamarajanagar District, Southern Karnataka

<ns3:p> Introduction Anaemia remains a significant public health concern, particularly among marginalized populations such as tribal communities. This study examines the complex relationships between dietary diversity, iron status biomarkers, and anaemia prevalence among Adivasi women in southern Karnataka, India. Method A cross-sectional analysis using data from the chiguru Adivasi cohort in Chamarajanagar District, Karnataka, India. The study included 479 women, primarily from the Soliga tribe. The authors assessed HHDD scores, measured haemoglobin, sTfR levels, and ferritin, and collected sociodemographic data. The authors then performed multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses to examine associations between these variables. Results The HHDD scores did not directly predict haemoglobin levels but were negatively associated with sTfR levels ( <ns3:italic>β</ns3:italic> = -2.975, <ns3:italic>p</ns3:italic> = 0.045). After adjusting for confounders , sTfR emerged as a crucial predictor of anaemia, with elevated levels considerably increasing the odds of anaemia (OR = 1.68, <ns3:italic>p</ns3:italic> &lt; 0.01). Geographic variations in dietary diversity among the Soliga community are influenced by forest access, seasonal availability of wild foods, and local agricultural practices. Conclusions This study highlights the need for cost-effective, culturally relevant interventions to address anaemia among Adivasi women. Promoting daily consumption of locally available iron-rich foods, including green leafy vegetables, and encouraging community-led vegetable cultivation can enhance dietary diversity. Strengthening nutritional awareness programs and improving participation through community engagement will further support sustainable dietary practices. Integrating these efforts into broader public health initiatives can effectively reduce anaemia and improve overall well-being in tribal populations. </ns3:p>