1Research Scholar, Department of Anthropology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune-07, Maharashtra
2Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune-07, Maharashtra, shaunakak@rediffmail.com
*Corresponding author email id: preeti.prabhnune@rediffmail.com
Online published on 4 January, 2017.
Person's inability to conduct daily routine is a disease. As per World Health Organization, 1998, if he is physically, mentally, socially not well then is diseased. There are many agents’ physical, chemical, biological, nutrient, mechanical and others contributing in disease occurrences. Ecology and culture both affect health of the people. Aim of the study is to understand the overall disease pattern and health-seeking behaviour in Nandurbar district of Maharashtra, and objectives are to understand the disease pattern of the people-to study the aetiology of the diseases, to understand the health-seeking behaviour of the people. People under study are between the age group (<20 to 50>) to understand the impact of ecological resources around. Sampling process is simple random from three villages-Body Mass Index (BMI) data are collected (n = 290), and interview schedules were filled from 118 families. Interview, observation, water testing for potability in lab and anthropometry were tools and techniques. It has been found that poor nutritional status, microbial infestation in water, poor sanitation and hygiene, excessive physical activities are responsible for the diseases prevalent. Genetic disorder like sickle cell anaemia is taken care of by the government. Ethno-medical practitioners, modern doctors and health workers are also interviewed.
Ecology, Diseases, Health, Malnutrition, Diet, Sanitation, Water samples
