Aging and Health Challenges of Tribal Population: An Empirical Study Among Car Nicobarese of Nicobar Island of India

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the aging and associated health challenges among the Car Nicobarese. The study was conducted among 165 Car Nicobarese (20–80 years old), a tribal population of Nicobar Island of India. A comparative assessment of this tribal population with other island/coastal regions tribal population groups in India and in global context has been highlighted. Anthropometric variables, physiological functions, and adiposity indices were studied. Anthropometric variables included weight, height, sitting height, upper arm circumference, chest circumference, waist circumference, abdomen circumference, hip circumference, and physiological functions included blood pressure, FVC, FEV1.0, and muscular strength. Adiposity indices, including BMI, GMT, WHR, and WHtR, have been computed. Cardio respiratory function, adiposity indices, and muscular strength indicated declining health with advancing age among Car Nicobarese. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were obtained between adult Car Nicobarese and elderly Car Nicobarese for most of the variables under study. A further exploration of the risk factors and associated health challenges among the tribal population of India will help to prepare effective policies to prevent, control, and manage the health challenges in a better way. Serious steps to improve health education and promotion have to be made in the tribal communities.