Background: The size of elderly segment of population is increasing in developing countries as the latter undergo a demographic transition with a concomitant increase in life expectancy. Indeed, it is estimated that by the year 2025 the majority of the people worldwide will reside in developing countries. Developing countries are thus likely to face an enormous burden of chronic non communicable disease in the near future. Of these diseases, hypertension is one of the most important treatable causes of mortality and morbidity in the elderly population. Studies have shown that tribal population in India are also experiencing this burden.

Objective: To measure the prevalence of hypertension and identify its risk factors.

Methods: A community based cross- sectional study was conducted in 1800 tribal population of 18 years and above in three tribal villages under Uttari Simaria of Korha block, Katihar.

Result: In 1800 population 51.7% were male and 48.3% were female. The Overall prevalence of hypertension was found 14.8%. in which 16.3% were males and 13.1% were females. Prevalence of hypertension was found greater in people taking non-vegetarian diet 18.1%.

Conclusion: Appropriate knowledge intervention strategies need to be adopted to increase awareness and treatment practices of hypertension among tribals.

Keywords: Prevalance, Hypertension, Non-Communicable Disease, Tribals, Awareness, Treatment.

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Dr Prawin Chandra

Associate Professor Department of Community Medicine, Katihar Medical College, Katihar, India