Browsing by Author "Gwesere, Dennis D."

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    Concurrent use of traditional medicine and antiretroviral therapy among aids support group members in Lunzu, Blantyre.
    (Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2010-12-01) Gwesere, Dennis D.
    The descriptive study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The general aim of the study was to explore the practice of concurrent use of traditional medicine and highly active antiretroviral therapy among people living with AIDS in Lunzu, sub-urban of Blantyre in Malawi. Using purposive sampling, 30 participants were drawn from the Chisomo PLWHA support group. The sample comprised of 27 female and 3 males. Pilot study was conducted at Chisenjere AIDS support group in the same location. Permission to conduct the study was sought from relevant authorities and in addition, participants were requested to give informed consent. Data was collected using face to face interview with the participant using the semi-structured questionnaire as a data collection tool and guide. Analysis of the data was done using both SPSS 17 computer package and content analysis. The results were communicated to nursing faculty of Kamuzu college of Nursing, NAMPHAM secretariat, and the Blantyre District Health Officer. The study has found that 63% of AIDS support group members combine traditional medicine and antiretroviral therapy without the knowledge of the health care provider. Uncertified immune boosters and herbs are the most used traditional medicine by clients. Drug side effects and chronic nature of AIDS are some of predictors to the use of traditional medicine. It is recommended that traditional medicine policy be developed to protect the public form some potentially harmful medicine. Finally, more research is needed to explore the efficacy and safety of some the traditional medicines being used by AIDS clients.