Implementation of community-based screening program for risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the urbanized tribal population of West Bengal.

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) present a significant public health challenge, particularly among India's tribal populations. This study aims to implement community-based screening to assess the current risk factors for NCDs in a tribal population, estimate the proportion at high risk using a Community-Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC), evaluate the program's acceptability and fidelity, identify determinants of high-risk groups, and explore reasons for non-attendance at health centers by high-risk individuals. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 238 urbanized tribal individuals aged 30-60. Data were collected using a pre-designed, structured, and validated questionnaire in the local language and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the findings. Results: Of the participants, 88 (37%) were identified as high-risk, while 129 (54.2%) exhibited inadequate awareness of NCDs. The program demonstrated high acceptability (90.5%) but moderate fidelity (45.46%). Among the 88 high-risk individuals, 48 (54.54%) did not visit the primary health center (PHC). In-depth interviews with 10 randomly selected defaulters revealed key barriers, including financial and time constraints, inaccessibility of facilities, and a lack of seriousness and awareness regarding NCDs. Conclusion: The findings underscore an urgent need for multifaceted awareness-raising initiatives to improve NCD prevention and management in tribal populations. Enhanced education and accessibility to healthcare services are crucial for reducing the burden of NCDs in these communities.