University:
Liberty University
Course:
BIOM 500 | Introduction to Biomedical Sciences
Academic year:

2024
Views:

94

Pages:

6
Author:

Sheha A.

**Purdah System** In certain societies, women either remain in a special room of the house or cover their faces and bodies to avoid being seen by men who are not related to them. This may cause inadequate exposure to sunlight, thereby causing Vitamin D deficiency. Studies have revealed that tuberculosis and diphtheria are relatively high among people who practice the purdah system. **Polygamy and Polyandry** One man marrying several women and one woman marrying several men is prevalent in many tribal communities of the country. This increases the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. **Consuming Alcohol and Smoking** Culture and cultural values affect individual attitudes towards substance use. In some communities, drinking may be a ceremonial or internal affair. **Pan Masala:** The common practice of chewing tobacco in rural India has rendered a large section of population vulnerable to cancers and other diseases. Social culture of smoking and consumption of alcohol is responsible for many health problems. **Beliefs related to Vaccination:** Some communities are reluctant or refuse to take vaccination. This is one of the ten global health threats. **Cultural beliefs related to mental health:** In some cultures, mental health problems are seen as a sign of weakness with people becoming reluctant to seek help for fear of stigma and discrimination. When cultural practices become part of the people's lifestyle, it becomes difficult to change their beliefs and practices. Pre-belief systems could play a major role in the healthcare seeking behaviours. Social stigma prevents proper investigation and integration of mentally ill individuals leading to relapse of the major mental health condition. **Culture and Nursing** * Recognizing and understanding cultural practices related to health and illness, and culturally bound syndromes help the nurse to provide culturally competent care. * The nurse should understand that cultural norms, habits and lifestyle are very difficult to change as human behaviour is motivated towards group agreement. Cultural practices are deep-rooted and require a very long time to change or modify. * The nurse should be aware of possible effects of hospitalization on the patient. Sudden admission into hospital may create a kind of cultural shock that will affect the well-being pattern and response to nursing interventions. * The nurse should provide holistic nursing care by understanding and providing holistic needs like their cultural and spiritual needs.