A cross-sectional observational study on socio-demographic and health status of SC population in selected villages of Gwalior and Bhind Districts

Background: In India, the Scheduled Castes (SCs) constitute a significant portion of the population, historically marginalized due to social and economic factors. The Scheduled Castes (SC) make up 15.62% of Madhya Pradesh's total population, highlighting their significant presence in the state. Understanding the socio-demographic and health status of the SC population is crucial for formulating effective policies and programs aimed at addressing their unique needs and improving their overall well-being. Objective: The study aimed to generate demographical and epidemiological data of Scheduled Caste (SC) people in the selected area, along with screening of adult SC population for hypertension, anemia, diabetes and obesity. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in nine SC populated villages of Gwalior and Bhind districts of Madhya Pradesh during the period of 2020-21. For this purpose, the study team conducted door to door survey and data was collected methodically from participants after informed consent through a standardized format. Data regarding population, personal hygiene, food habits, occupation, addictions etc. was collected. The collected data underwent thorough analysis using descriptive statistical methods, encompassing measures of frequency and data position. Results: The data showed inadequate drainage, drinking water purification at home, insufficient health care services and low literacy rate specially in woman. Majority of the people were not having any non-communicable diseases. Hypertension/CVD was the commonest non-communicable disease. 92.1% of population had normal Body Mass Index and Obesity was observed in only 0.2% population. Males were found to be more anemic than females. Conclusion: By shedding light on the socio-demographic and health-related disparities faced by the SC population in Gwalior and Bhind districts, it can be concluded that literacy rate should be improved in females and more attention to be paid towards anemia in males. Hypertension or prehypertension was also reported in considerable population which may be due to COVID outbreak and again a study regarding its prevalence may be planned. These diseases may be attributed to poor personal hygiene, lack of health awareness including hazards of addictions, low socio-economic conditions and insufficient primary health care services.