Haematological screening and its correlation with sociodemographic profile among the indigenous communities in and around Puducherry.

Background: Haemoglobin disorders are unique and important health challenges for tribal populations. Hence, this study was undertaken with the aim to screen for haematological disorders, particularly anaemia and haemoglobinopathies, and to assess the sociodemographic profile in indigenous communities residing in and around Puducherry. Methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted in both urban and rural areas of Puducherry district. We included 556 participants through convenient sampling. Trained research associates visited community to enrol eligible participants and sought information on sociodemographic parameters, health status, and disease profile, using a structured questionnaire; 2-3 ml of blood was collected in ethylene diamine tetra acid anticoagulant for analysis of haematology parameters. Results: Median age of participants was 28 (17-42) years. Majority (58.8%) of the participants were female, married (52.8%). On thalassemia screening, none of the study participants had any haemoglobinopathy. The burden of anaemia among the study population was 38.7% (95% CI: 34.6-42.8%) and was higher among the female participants in both adolescent (54.5%) and adult (57.8%) age groups. The next common haematological abnormality observed was eosinophilia 21.4% (95% CI: 18-25%), more prevalent among males in the age group of 30-60 years. Conclusion: More than half of the women were anaemic. Multidimensional planning and implementation are needed to improve the socio-economic profile and overall health of this vulnerable population.