Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Traditional Medicine Practitioners in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The people of Edo State of Nigeria have a long history of dependence on traditional medicine as a primary source and first line of action for their healthcare needs. Efforts have been made by various national and subnational governments towards integrating the TM practice for the benefit of its citizens with little progress. The slow progress is partly because of dearth in the knowledge, attitude and practice of the practitioners. A descriptive cross-sectional study aimed at highlighting the demography, attitude and approach as well as the exposing the key gaps in the practice and expectation of the practitioners from the different stakeholders, was carried out. The survey study was conducted using a standardized structured questionnaire. The outcome showed that 90% of practitioners were within the age bracket of 25 and 65 years, and majority (66%) were of male gender and, about 94% and 78% were literate and self-employed, respectively. About 30% have being in practice for less than 10 years and about 44% sees less than 10 patients per week. The major diseases treated include malaria (66%), stomach ulcer (62%), cough and sore throat (54%), diabetes (54%), gonorrhoea/sexually transmitted diseases (52%) and menstrual pain (50%). About 28% claimed to have subjected some of their products to laboratory testing but only about 4% of respondents had NAFDAC registered products. Edo TMPs have high expectation for government and partners supports in strengthening TM practices through the provision modern production facility, supports for medicinal plant gardens, laboratory testing, training on best practices and better legislation for citizens’ patronage.