Prevalence and Determinants of Noncommunicable Disease Risk Factors Among the Santal Tribe Residing in Mayurbhanj District, Odisha, India

Background: Noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors are rising among tribal groups in India. Nevertheless, this issue remains largely unexamined among the Santal tribe in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and determinants of behavioural and selected metabolic risk factors of NCDs among the Santals aged 18 to 69 years in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. Methodology: A cross-sectional study using the WHO STEPS instrument was conducted among 516 Santals between January to March 2023. R software was used to perform descriptive analysis and logistic regression. Results: Tobacco and alcohol use were prevalent among 72.1% and 68.0% of participants, respectively, with higher rates in males and older adults. Low physical activity was reported by 12%, especially among the unmarried and unemployed. 99.2% had inadequate fruit and vegetable intake. 36.0% had hypertension, 29.7% were overweight, 19.6% had abdominal obesity, and 8.5% were obese. Risk factors were significantly associated with age, sex, marital status, employment, and education. Conclusions: The study indicates a substantial burden of NCD risk factors among the rural Santals, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate interventions promoting dietary diversity, health education, and active lifestyles. Incorporating tribal-specific strategies within existing health programs can help prevent and control NCDs in this population.