Western medicine and traditional healers: Partners in the fight against HIV/AIDS

Prevention and control programs for HIV/AIDS have had limited success, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Not surprising, most residents see traditional healers as their only option to meet their healthcare needs. Some patients refuse surgery or other medical treatment unless their traditional healer...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of the National Medical Association 2004-06, Vol.96 (6), p.822-825
Main Authors: LIVERPOOL, Joan, ALEXANDER, Randell, JOHNSON, Melba, EBBA, Ebba K, FRANCIS, Shelly, LIVERPOOL, Charles
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - epidemiology
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - therapy
Attitude of Health Personnel
Biological and medical sciences
Complementary Therapies
General aspects
HIV Infections - epidemiology
HIV Infections - therapy
Human viral diseases
Humans
Infectious diseases
Medical sciences
Medicine, African Traditional
South Africa - epidemiology
Viral diseases
Viral diseases of the lymphoid tissue and the blood. Aids
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Summary:Prevention and control programs for HIV/AIDS have had limited success, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Not surprising, most residents see traditional healers as their only option to meet their healthcare needs. Some patients refuse surgery or other medical treatment unless their traditional healer sanctions the treatment first. Formally trained doctors have finally begun to consider traditional healers as potential allies in the battle to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS by recognizing that the longstanding trust and credibility of these healers in the black communities can facilitate change in sexual behavior. Innovative and effective approaches, including utilization of traditional healers, can play a vital role in Africa's AIDS prevention and control programs.
ISSN:0027-9684
1943-4693