General health-related disorders, medical treatment preferences, and health management practices in South Indians during COVID-19 pandemic - An exploratory study

Introduction: The number and type of health related disorders are increasing day by day across the globe and India is not an exception. The emergence of COVID 19 in India is also fuelling health related disorders among Indians. The present study is focused on understanding general health related disorders, medical treatment preferences, and health management practices in South Indians using an exploratory approach. Methods: A survey method was followed to conduct the study using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed based on a focus group discussion with the experts and researchers in the general medicine field. A convenience sampling method and online survey method were used to collect the data from the respondents. Results: The top six health related disorders reported in the study were skin related problems, eye problems, menstrual problems, mental stress, dental problems, and vitamin and nutritional deficiencies. The most preferred treatment option is allopathy medicine, followed by ayurveda and homeopathy. The preferred place for the treatment were private hospitals, followed by clinics and then government hospitals. A list of 22 positive and negative health related practices currently followed by the respondents was also identified in the study. Discussion: The results of the study will be helpful to understand a comprehensive overview of the study topic by the health professionals, hospital authorities, health researchers, and policymakers to develop strategies to manage the health related disorders, provide effective medical treatment, and enhance the current health management practices. Conclusion: Effective treatment for the top six health-related disorders identified in the study and more awareness programs and training will help achieve better health management.