The use of Traditional Medicine by Ghanaians in Canada
2008

Ghanaians in Canada and Their Use of Traditional Medicine

Sample size: 512 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Barimah Kofi B, van Teijlingen Edwin R

Primary Institution: Catholic University College of Ghana

Hypothesis

How do Ghanaian immigrants in Canada change their attitudes towards traditional medicine as they acculturate?

Conclusion

Ghanaians in Canada generally maintain a positive attitude towards traditional medicine despite exposure to modern healthcare.

Supporting Evidence

  • 73% of Ghanaian immigrants in Canada have a positive attitude towards traditional medicine.
  • Concerns were raised about the hygiene and preparation of traditional medicine.
  • Participants reported a mix-and-match approach to health care, using both traditional and modern medicine.

Takeaway

Most Ghanaians in Canada still believe in traditional medicine, even though they also see modern medicine.

Methodology

The study used a mixed-methods approach, including structured questionnaires and focus groups.

Potential Biases

Participants may have provided socially desirable responses regarding their use of traditional medicine.

Limitations

The study relied on self-reported data, which may be biased.

Participant Demographics

{"gender":{"male":285,"female":227},"age":{"less_than_20":45,"20_to_39":206,"40_to_59":246,"60_to_79":15},"place_of_birth":{"ghana":450,"canada":62},"education":{"no_schooling":7,"primary":7,"middle":231,"secondary_technical":195,"university":72}}

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6882-8-30

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