Twin Pregnancy in the African

The Natural History of Anaemia Associated with Protein Malnutrition

“…Much of this has previously been reported (Woodruff, 1951), but, in brief, it has been found that among 45 women studied there was one twin pregnancy in five pregnancies. Ross (1952) states that the ratio throughout the world is 1 in 90. In the United States of America among white persons it is 1 in 88, and among coloured citizens 1 in 67; among Africans in Rhodesia, where Ross was working, the rate is 1 in 35.…”

Cultic Powers of Yoruba Twins:Manifestation of Traditional and Religious Beliefs of the Yoruba

“…The ibeji could be used to avenge a wrong with the assistance of Sango, god of thunder and lightning, traditional medicine, and incantations. One procedure was described by Simpson [7] as follows: "Whatever is taboo to both Sango and Ibeji are rubbed on the ibeji figure with hot pepper. The petitioner says to Sango: 'Mr X (the prospective victim) asked me to give this to you.…”

“…Then the ibeji are removed from the shrine, washed and rubbed with camwood and a votive offering of cock, ekuru, and snails would be offered to the ibeji." [7].…”

“…This water in which the ibeji has been washed would then be poured in the bath and anyone who bathes there would be cured of their illness." [7].…”

Medical and Social Problems of the African in Industry

“…The high incidence of miscarriage and premature birth among malnourished African women is known (Gillm3n and Gillman, 1951;Ross, 1952). That the high abortion rate can be solely attributed to venereal disease is doubtful.…”