Sociocultural and indigenous practices of rural India in adapting to heat stress: an exploratory descriptive qualitative study.

backgroundRajasthan, a state in northwest India, experiences extreme heat, causing a plethora of health impacts. Understanding local practices for coping with heat is crucial for integrating with available scientific evidence and thereby in developing effective public health interventions. This study aimed to explore the sociocultural practices for adapting to heat stress and health-seeking behaviour for heat-related illnesses among the general population.

methodsThis was an exploratory descriptive qualitative study. In-depth (n=11) and key informant (n=5) interviews and focus group discussions (n=3) were conducted among various stakeholders, with a pretested interview guide. Typical case and intensity sampling techniques were used to recruit participants. Thematic analysis of the content was done manually by an inductive approach to identify various strategies in the community for adapting to heat stress.

resultsA total of 36 participants were involved in this study. They described a range of signs and symptoms experienced during extreme heat. There were mentions of several home remedies, including the use of tamarind paste, bentonite clay, decoction of spices and screw pine flowers. Sociocultural practices for heat adaptation included housing modifications, such as thatched roofs, use of mud and hay, coating with limestone and alum, installation of solar panels and the use of coolers for temperature control. Vocational adjustments, such as scheduling work during cooler times of the day and using wet clothes for heat relief, were also prevalent, with concerns about sickness absenteeism and loss of wages. People expressed their care for animals during the hot summers and nature conservation. Socio-economic disparities within the village are a major reason for challenges related to affordability. Criticisms were also placed on accessibility to a well-prepared health system.

conclusionsThe findings highlight the diverse range of sociocultural practices and health-seeking behaviours by people in rural areas of Rajasthan to cope with extreme heat. Incorporating indigenous knowledge and traditional practices into public health initiatives, after adequate validation, is essential for enhancing heat resilience and mitigating heat-related health risks in the region. Future research and interventions should consider context-specific approaches to heat adaptation, acknowledging the importance of local traditions and practices in promoting community health and well-being.