Exploring The Prevalence And Perceptions Of Traditional Hakeemic Medicine Use Among Chronic Liver Disease Patients In Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study From Sahiwal
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/pakmcr1109Keywords:
Chronic Liver Disease (CLD), Hakeemic Medicine, Traditional Medicine Use, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), Health-Seeking BehaviorAbstract
Background: Chronic Liver disease (CLD) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality around the world, hepatitis B and C are the most frequent causes in Pakistan. In spite of the use of modern medicines, many patients still seek traditional Hakeemic medicine to get some relief and cure. Public health planning requires understanding of the pattern and perception of Hakeemic medicine use of CLD patients. Objective of the study was to find out the frequency, pattern and perception of the use of traditional Hakeemic medicine in patients with chronic liver disease in Sahiwal, Pakistan. Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out in Sahiwal teaching hospital for 1.5 months. Fifty participants were recruited by convenience sampling for the diagnosis of chronic liver disease. A self-designed questionnaire was used for the collection of data on the demographic data, disease history, and Hakeemic medicine use. Ethical issues were adhered to. The data were examined by SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to present results. Out of the 50 participants, majority were male (60%) and the mean age was 45 ± 12 years. This age group 41-50 years was the highest (40%). Almost 68% of the respondents reported consuming Hakeemic medicine during the disease. The belief in natural healing and discontent with allopathic medicine were the primary reasons cited. But 25% experienced side effects or even aggravation following Hakeemic medicine use. Summary: Substantial number of CLD patients in Pakistan are still using the Hakeemic medicine, conventional medicine or both. Health seeking behavior is heavily shaped by cultural and traditional beliefs, but due to the lack of scientific regulation and monitoring of traditional and cultural therapies there are concerns. Recommendations include patient education and incorporating safe practices into health care policy.
