Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care

Preference and treatment practices of traditional medicines for cutaneous leishmaniasis in Northeast Ethiopia

Abstract

Getachew Kebebew Abate

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which is a significant public health problem that disproportionately affects the poorest populations and those living in rural and conflict areas. Kalu is a rural district known for its high co-endemicity for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) with severe consequences. This study was set to explore the preference and practices of traditional medicines for cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Kalu district, south Wollo, Amhara region. A qualitative research method, particularly an ethnographic design, was used. In-depth interviews (IDIs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs) were used as data collection methods. Individuals with cutaneous Leishmaniasis, traditional healers, religious and kebeles leaders, high school teachers, youth members, and elder groups were taken as study participants. In order to select these participants, purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed. Analysis was made by recording, verbatim transcribing to Amharic, and then translating into English. The translated data were coded, categorized, and sorted in accordance with their themes, and sources. Despite the fact that some educated individuals and youth groups with individuals with cutaneous leishmaniasis have preferred the modern medicines, the wider communities have primarily preferred the traditional medicines for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) disease. The issue of access in terms of treatment services, geographical distributions, treatment costs, and meeting patients’ expectations, as well as perceived effectiveness and educational status are determinative factors that can influence the communities with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) to prefer traditional treatments. Cutaneous leishmaniasis has been treated using different traditional medicines in the study area, such as herbal, animal, material, mineral, and spiritual medicines.

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