Factors Influencing Health of the Santals: A Study of Selected Villages of Birbhum

Abstract

The study discusses the influence of social, economic and cultural factors on health-seeking behaviours of the Santals living in six villages of Birbhum district in West Bengal, India. By employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, data were collected for the study. The analysis shows the link between educational, social, economic and cultural factors and health-seeking behaviour. Lack of economic freedom was found as the predominant indicator in restricting access to better health-care facilities. Poor occupational standards, low levels of income and less investment in maintaining health influence the health-seeking behaviour of Santals in the studied area. The study argues that the existing services are inadequate and often inappropriately implemented. The findings have implications for enhancing the role of education and improving the quality and quantity of services.