Prevalence and Risk Factors of Tooth Morbidity among the Elderly Irula Tribal Population of Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Oral health is a fundamental but frequently overlooked component of newlineoverall health and well-being, especially among vulnerable and marginalized groups. In newlineIndia, tribal populations still experience entrenched health inequalities, exacerbated by newlinesocioeconomic disadvantage, cultural barriers, and restricted access to healthcare newlineservices. The Irula tribes are one of the largest Scheduled Tribes in Tamil Nadu. This newlinestudy aimed to explore the prevalence of tooth morbidity, risk factors, oral hygiene and newlinedental treatment-seeking behavior among elderly Irula tribal community members aged newline60 and above in Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu. newlineWith a mixed-methods design, this study employed both qualitative and newlinequantitative data collection methods to produce an in-depth insight into the problem. newlineThe qualitative aspect consisted of seven Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) among older newlineIrula participants and sought to retain their views, customary ways, and issues with oral newlinehealthcare accessibility and treatment seeking behavior. Thematic analysis of FGD newlinetranscripts demonstrated a deep dependence on indigenous oral hygiene practices, newlineincluding neem twigs, charcoal, salt, and brick powder, with roots deeply entrenched in newlinegenerational knowledge and cultural identity. Participants described a variety of oral newlinehealth problems, including bleeding gums, toothache, tooth loss, and sensitivity, which newlinewere explained largely as age-related issues and frequently not treated because of newlinehospital fear, cost, or distance. Home remedies and self-medication were practiced, and newlineprofessional dental care was not generally sought unless they were in extreme pain newline