Influence of Sociocultural Factors on Medication Use among Stroke Patients in Rural Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examined the influence of sociocultural factors such as beliefs and practices on medication use among stroke patients in rural Cross River State, Nigeria as a way understand the health-seeking behaviour of these patients in the area. The Predisposing-Enabling-Need and Witchcraft Theories of disease causation provided the framework. Data collection was through three qualitative methods. Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with six key opinion leaders (chiefs, elders and religious leaders), six care givers, six significant others, and 12 stroke patients. Eighteen Focus Group Discussions were conducted among men, women, community leaders and community members, while two life histories were carried out on stroke patients. Results indicated that beliefs and practices were significantly associated with medication use among stroke patients. Stroke was perceived as caused by supernatural forces working through human agencies, breach of religious taboos, and violation of social norms. As a result, the majority of the respondents and participants perceived traditional medicine essentially as the most important treatment option.