Factors Contributing to the Utilization of Traditional Medicine in the Treatment of Ear, Nose, and Throat Conditions

Cecilia Opoku Agyemang; Oscar Agyemang Opoku

doi:10.56741/hesmed.v4i02.801

Authors

Cecilia Opoku Agyemang Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital
Oscar Agyemang Opoku
Oscar.opoku@stu.ucc.edu.gh
University of Cape Coast https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5665-5685

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56741/hesmed.v4i02.801

Keywords:

Ear, Nose, and Throat, Knowledge, Kumasi, Traditional Medicine, Utilization

Abstract

The rate of the use of traditional medicine continues to grow worldwide and is the preferred treatment in especially rural communities in developing countries. This study assessed the factors contributing to the utilization of traditional medicine in the treatment of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) conditions in Kumasi. This quantitative study used a descriptive survey study design to answer the research questions. Convenience sampling technique was used in sampling 166 respondents for the study using Yamen’s formula. A questionnaire was developed to gather information under each objective. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science Software to present descriptive analysis. Results from the study showed majority of the respondents believed that cultural beliefs influenced the usage of traditional medicine in the treatment of ENT conditions as more than half of the respondents; 141 (84.9%) responded yes to the statement, ‘Traditional medicine is associated with religious and spiritual underpinnings’. Also, cost, spirituality, social relationships, and health workers' interpersonal relationships among others affected the usage of traditional medicine among the respondents. It was therefore concluded that cultural beliefs are a very significant factor that contributes to the usage of traditional medicine in the treatment of ENT conditions. It is therefore recommended that the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the various health directorates in Kumasi should plan and organize a public awareness campaign program to educate the general population about the potential benefits and risks of traditional medicine.

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Author Biographies

Cecilia Opoku Agyemang, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital

is a multifaceted academic and researcher, currently pursuing her PhD. As a lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), affiliate lecturer at the ENT School, and adjunct lecturer at Christian Service University College, Cecilia has established herself as an expert in her field. Her research interests converge on public health and nursing, with a specific focus on ear, nose, and throat (ENT) structures. Cecilia's unique blend of quantitative and qualitative research skills enables her to tackle complex health issues from multiple angles. (email: cecilia@entnursingsch.edu.gh).

Oscar Agyemang Opoku, University of Cape Coast

is a young researcher and industry player. As a Geography Scholar and a Development Planning Officer, Dr. Opoku has equipped himself with skills in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies by fusing descriptive analysis, explanatory analysis, interview and questionnaire data, thematic & content analysis, regression, and Structural Equation Modelling. His robust skills in mixed methods permit him to confront complex public health issues and developmental challenges from different perspectives. His research interests cover Health Geography, Economic Geography, Development Planning, climate change, Disaster Risk Reduction Planning, Project Management, and Business Management. He is a reviewer of many peer-reviewed and Scopus-indexed journals worldwide. (email: Oscar.opoku@stu.ucc.edu.gh).

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