Abstract

This empirical study examines the health status, risk perceptions, and health-seeking behaviors of the rural poor in Tamil Nadu,
focusing on occupational health and traditional medicine. Despite advancements in healthcare infrastructure, rural communities
face high prevalence’s of chronic and non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory conditions,
often delayed by limited awareness and reliance on traditional remedies. Occupational hazards from agriculture and informal
sectors are widespread, yet protective practices are underutilized due to lack of awareness and resources. Socio-economic
barriers, including poverty, low education, gender norms, and social discrimination, significantly influence healthcare access
and preventive behaviors. The study employs secondary data analysis, highlighting key indicators like disease prevalence,
lifestyle risks, traditional medicine usage, and occupational hazards, supported by regression and ANOVA analyses. Findings
reveal high awareness of traditional systems but limited use for severe conditions, and a gap between risk recognition and
protective practices. Cultural beliefs, infrastructural deficiencies, and financial constraints hinder timely healthcare utilization,
while integration of AYUSH systems with modern healthcare shows promise. Recommendations emphasize culturally sensitive
interventions, community engagement, occupational safety education, and expanding accessible health services through mobile
camps and local health workers. Addressing these multifaceted barriers is crucial to reducing health disparities, promoting
preventive care, and improving health outcomes among the rural poor in Tamil Nadu. The study underscores the importance of
holistic, community-based strategies that combine traditional and modern healthcare approaches to foster sustainable health
improvements. Within this context, the study examines the major and emerging challenges that are progressively shaping
today’s interconnected global environment.