Sickle cell disease-related knowledge and perceptions of traditional healers in tribal communities in India: implications on sickle cell disease programme

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a progressively debilitating genetic disease, and India is the second most affected nation in SCD births. SCD births are high among Indian indigenous tribal communities, whose health care is pluralistic. Traditional healers are an essential part of tribal pluralistic care. This study aimed to understand the extent of SCD-related knowledge and practices of traditional healers and their willingness to be part of the programme. Following the grounded theory approach, data were collected by in-depth interviews with 40 traditional healers selected from ve SCD endemic districts. Text data were coded through a deductive approach, and thematic content analysis was carried out. A few healers knew the SCD. However, almost all are aware of anaemia and its symptoms. Most were unaware of the cause of SCD and mentioned that malnutrition and anaemia are reasons for the recurrence of SCD-related symptoms. Most of the traditional healers did not give any treatment. Some gave symptomatic treatment and provided herbal medicines along with some rituals. Though some healers treated some of the typical symptoms of SCD like spleen enlargement, jaundice, swelling and pains in joints, they could not link them with SCD. All traditional healers expressed the concern and said they support the government-run SCD programme. The programme should recognise the role and importance of traditional healers.Necessary orientation may be given to the healers. Such involvement and orientation empower the traditional healers in appropriately guiding the people concerning SCD care.