Socio-ecological studies on a tropical coastal area in southern India

Abstract

Socioeconomic status versus human health issues were studied during one year among coastal communities of southern India. Hydrochemical (16) and microbial parameters (9) were analyzed, and the results were represented by using correlation coefficient and principal component analysis (PCA). Bacteriological populations were higher in this order TVC > TC > VLO > VC > TS > FC > FS > SA, and antibiotic resistance to β-lactams (amoxicillin, ampicillin, methicillin, and penicillin-G) was found against Salmonella sp. (52%), Vibrio sp. (49%), E. coli (47.5%), and Shigella sp. (40%). According to our observational epidemiological survey, drinking water usage on people by municipal supplies accounted for 48% and groundwater sources for 52% of the demand. Open defecation accounted for 85.9%, wrecked latrines contributed with 10.4%, and the possibility of hygienic sanitary usage was available only to 3.7%. Average infection rates of male adult patients accounted for 29%, compared to female (12%) and children (8%) suggesting for the implementation of an effective child care program and national health mission.