The world is in the stage of epidemiological transition, and noncommunicable diseases (NCD) are overtaking communicable diseases not only in general but also among the tribal population. Within the Indian context, tribal populations, restricted to rural areas, are assumed to be untouched by NCDs which are lifestyle-driven diseases. However, recent studies have produced evidence for the increasing trend of NCDs among tribal populations. Therefore a cross-sectional study was conducted to find out the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol among the tribal elderly women. This study utilizes methods including group discussions, interviews, field observations and informal meetings. The experiences of the participants were collected through in-depth interviews, analyzed thematically to identify common patterns and interpreted to understand their healthcare-seeking behaviours within their cultural context. Elderly tribal women in Agali, Sholayur, and Pudur had a prevalence of diabetes (17.5%), hypertension (53.64%), and high cholesterol (9.16%), with increasing age linked to higher rates of diabetes and hypertension. The study highlights a significant burden of non-communicable diseases, due to inadequate nutrient intake and inappropriate healthcare practices

Tribal, Elderly woman, Lifestyle disorder, Risk factors, Surveillance

Non-communicable diseases burden in tribal population is in an increasing trend. Elderly tribal women in Agali, Sholayur, and Pudur had a prevalence of diabetes (17.5%), hypertension (53.64%), and high cholesterol (9.16%), with increasing age linked to higher rates of diabetes and hypertension. The study highlights a significant burden of non-communicable diseases, due to inadequate nutrient intake. The link between inadequate diets and the higher rates of NCDs is undeniable, highlighting the urgent need for nutritional education. The major limitation of this study was that age-specific diseases could not be ascertained as the elderly tribal women were not able to tell their exact age

Megha S. Karthikeyan, Anitha Chandran C., Beela G K. and Suma Divakar (2025). Prevalence and Determinants of Lifestyle Disorders Among Elderly Tribal Women in the Attappadi Region of Kerala. Biological Forum, 17(4): 54-57.