Health status of particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) of Odisha: a narrative review

Abstract

There are 75 identified Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India of which the highest numbers i.e., 13 PVTGs reside in Odisha. Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) are indigenous communities distinguished by their unique cultural practices, traditional lifestyles, and geographical isolation. Their health status is often precarious due to strong traditional health practices, limited access to healthcare, inadequate nutrition, and exposure to community-acquired diseases. This review aims to explore the health status of all 13 PVTGs in Odisha, analyzing 67 studies from various sources/databases between 2000 and 2023. These studies include peer-reviewed published papers, grey literature, and brief reports. The findings showed that nutritional status among PVTGs varies widely while low BMI and undernutrition exist at different rates in different tribes. Deficiency diseases like goitre and anemia, infectious ailments such as tuberculosis and leprosy, and non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes were reported with significant prevalence. Additionally, hemoglobinopathies, oral health issues, eye problems, undernutrition, poor mental health, and various other health challenges affect these tribes. Furthermore, behavioral issues like high tobacco consumption, alcoholism and menstrual health and hygiene disparities are other major challenges. Health disparities in diverse PVTGs arise from socioeconomic factors, cultural norms, and healthcare access. PVTGs face unique hurdles like major geographic isolation and traditional cultural influences which significantly shape their health choices. Addressing their poor health status demands cultural understanding, community engagement, and interventions targeting root inequalities for inclusive healthcare and improved well-being. • There are 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India and Odisha has the highest, 13 number of PVTGs. • PVTGs, the extremely vulnerable section within the tribal groups facing significant challenges, are characterized by pre-agricultural lifestyles, reliance on hunting and gathering, minimal/stagnant population growth, geographical isolation, and lower literacy rates. • The study reports the various health issues faced by PVTGs including undernutrition, infectious and vector-borne diseases, hepatitis, hemoglobinopathies, low immunization rates, poor maternal and menstrual health, poor oral and eye health, and increasing mental health issues. • Present findings highlight limited research on PVTGs’ health with the increasing health burden catalyzed by systemic and structural factors. • It discusses the various influencing factors by recommendations from multiple reports on effective strategies, interventions, and future actions.

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