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Abstract
Traditional healers in Bangladesh: their knowledge on sexually transmitted diseases and possible role in prevention of HIV/AIDS
Chanda S.K.1, Quddus M.S.2, Bhowmik K.R.2
Objectives: Traditional healers in Bangladesh are very often the first medical contact, particularly in the rural area. There are several types of healers according to their means of practice, like spiritual healers, water therapists, herbalists, bonesetters and traditional birth attendants. Some herbal practitioners and traditional birth attendants (TBA) are recognized by government, after receiving training from an approved institution. Other traditional methods are widely practiced in the country, though not acceptable by law. The common complaints that bring patients to them are sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and so called “sexual weakness”. It is not much known about the knowledge among traditional healers concerning STDs and HIV/AIDS.
Methods: During May- August 2005, 96 male and female traditional healers were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. Their perception and knowledge about HIV/AIDS and other STDs, prevention, view regarding modern medical system were collected by trained interviewer.
Results: 76% of them could mention mode of transmission correctly, 58% answered about symptom of AIDS. 72% mentioned condom as means for prevention of STD/HIV. However 42% said using herbal also could prevent AIDS. Regarding sexual weakness, 80% think that using modern medicine is of no use; rather using traditional medicine or spiritual effects can help in this case. All of them mentioned that good relationship and trustworthiness with local people are the main strength of their practice.
Conclusions: Many people in the country still faith on healers and using traditional medicine. Some healers believe that traditional healers have the potential to become AIDS educator. So, it is important that government and modern medicine practitioners cooperate with the traditional healers for better health service and HIV/AIDS prevention program. One possibility is incorporating their influence and skill in the primary health care at community level, after providing orientation on modern medical system.
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention
Abstract no.
CDB388
Suggested Citation
"ChandaS.K., et al.
Traditional healers in Bangladesh: their knowledge on sexually transmitted diseases and possible role in prevention of HIV/AIDS.
:
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention:
Abstract no.
CDB388"
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