Scribd
Upload
29 views

Unit 7 Assignment Activity

Uploaded by

azizuddin2339
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
29 views

Unit 7 Assignment Activity

Uploaded by

azizuddin2339
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

Cultural Influences on Health: A Report on Community Health

As a healthcare professional at a community health center, it is essential to


recognize and understand the intricate relationship between culture and
health to provide effective care. Culture significantly influences individuals'
health behaviors, attitudes toward illness, and their willingness to seek
medical help. In this report, I will explore how cultural beliefs impact health-
related behaviors within my community and suggest strategies for delivering
culturally competent care to diverse populations.

The Role of Culture in Health-Related Behaviors


Culture shapes an individual’s beliefs about health, illness, and the
healthcare system. It influences how people perceive the causes of illness,
the appropriate treatments, and who is responsible for maintaining health.
For instance, in some cultures, health may be viewed holistically, where
balance in physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects is considered necessary
for well-being. Conversely, Western cultures may emphasize a biomedical
approach, where disease is seen as a result of pathogens, and treatment is
focused on medical intervention.
One critical aspect of cultural influence is how it affects individuals’ likelihood
to seek medical help. In some cultures, individuals may rely on traditional
healers or home remedies before seeking modern medical treatment, which
can delay diagnosis and proper care. Furthermore, cultural norms
surrounding gender roles may affect health-seeking behavior, particularly for
women, who may face societal barriers to accessing healthcare
independently.
Additionally, culture impacts individuals’ behaviors in maintaining their
health. For example, dietary practices, exercise habits, and approaches to
preventative care are often dictated by cultural norms. Understanding these
behaviors is crucial for healthcare providers, as it allows them to recommend
treatments and health strategies that align with the patient’s cultural values,
improving the chances of adherence to medical advice.

Cultural Health Beliefs in the Community


In my community, which is predominantly influenced by Bangladeshi culture,
several cultural beliefs about health are commonly observed. For example,
many people believe that illness can result from an imbalance between the
body and nature, and traditional remedies such as herbal medicine are often
used. There is also a strong cultural belief in the role of the family in health
decisions, with family members playing a central role in deciding when and
where to seek medical help.
Religious beliefs also influence health behaviors in this community. For
instance, some people may avoid certain medical treatments, such as blood
transfusions or vaccines, due to religious restrictions or concerns.
Understanding these beliefs is essential for healthcare providers, as it helps
them tailor their approach when discussing treatment options with patients
from these backgrounds.

Strategies for Delivering Culturally Competent Care


Delivering culturally competent care involves understanding and respecting
the diverse cultural backgrounds of patients while providing healthcare
services. One key strategy is engaging in active listening and creating a safe
environment for patients to express their health beliefs and concerns. This
allows healthcare providers to identify any potential cultural barriers that
may affect the patient’s willingness to follow treatment plans.
Healthcare providers should also take steps to build trust with patients from
different cultural backgrounds. For instance, by involving family members in
discussions about care, providers can respect cultural norms related to
family roles in health decisions. Providers should also be flexible in offering
treatment options that align with the patient’s cultural values. For example,
if a patient prefers traditional remedies, the healthcare provider can work
with the patient to integrate these remedies with modern treatments where
appropriate.
Education plays a vital role in improving culturally competent care.
Healthcare providers should be educated about the different cultures within
their community and how these cultures influence health beliefs and
practices. This education should also include training on effective
communication strategies, such as using simple language or involving
interpreters when needed, to ensure that patients fully understand their
treatment options.
Finally, healthcare institutions should implement policies that support
cultural competence. This may involve hiring a diverse staff that reflects the
community’s population or offering training programs that teach staff about
the cultural dynamics of the populations they serve.

Conclusion
Culture significantly influences health-related behaviors, the perception of
illness, and the likelihood of seeking medical help. In my community, beliefs
about traditional medicine, the role of family in health decisions, and
religious views shape individuals' health behaviors. To deliver culturally
competent care, healthcare providers must engage in active listening, build
trust, and offer culturally sensitive treatment options. By understanding and
respecting cultural diversity, healthcare professionals can provide better care
and contribute to the overall health of their community.

References
 EuroMed Info. (n. d.). How culture influences health beliefs. Retrieved
from https://www.euromedinfo.eu/how-culture-influences-health-
beliefs.html/
 Olatunde, O. (2023). How culture influences health. Caring for Kids
New to Canada. Retrieved from
https://kidsnewtocanada.ca/culture/How-Culture-Influences-Health

You might also like