Information on the beliefs and practices of 50 Chinese diabetic patients concerning the cause and treatment of their ill-health were collected by the interview method with the aid of a questiOnnaire which has been protested. it was found that 34 of the patients were using “Chinese” medicines, in addition to Western-style treatment. Only two of the patients knew the true cause of diabetes. 37 of the patients understood that treatment cannot effect a radical cure. The beliefs and practices of the diabetic patients were influenced by two main sources of information, the pattern of traditional Chinese beliefs and Western medicine. The implications of the study in community health education on diabetes and education of the diabetic patient were discussed.
The phenomenon of amok is reviewed in order to demonstrate the heuristic value of an ethno-behavioral model of culture-bound syndromes. The notion that culture-bound syndromes share underlying common disease forms is rejected. Instead, the ethno-behavioral model postulates that culture-bound syndromes consist of culturally specific behavioral repertoires legitimated by culturally sanctioned norms and concepts, but with both behavior and norms acquired in accordance with basic principles of human learning universal to all cultures. Consistent with this model, amok is shown to be a common behavioral pathway for multiple precipitants (which may or may not include disease pathology), but with a distinct form and conceptualization which can be traced to the social learning practices and beliefs of the Malay.
This paper examines the symbolic properties and cultural relevance of latah, a behavioral state noted in Malay and Indonesia since the 19th Century. Most interpretations of latah have been psychological, latah being perceived as a 'mental disorder.' In the following, it is concluded that latah is intimately related to other aspects of Malayo-Indonesian culture and that it is a well-known cultural pattern and not a mental disorder as such, though it may occur among persons, largely women, in a socially and psychologically marginal situation. Latah is a symbolic representation of marginality, and it is as appropriate to certain mythological and religious figures to the socially marginal.
A postal questionnaire survey was carried out among military doctors during June to August 1979 on habits and attitudes to smoking. An 87% response rate was obtained. Smoking prevalence was found to be 50%. 45% of medical officers are heavy smokers. Age at starting influence the amount smoked. Service life had no influence on smoking habits. Attitudes to smoking vary between the different categories of doctors. The habits and attitudes indicate a mental revolution on the part of doctors is required prior to any anti-smoking programme as they have to be sufficiently motivated to lead the fight.
A' brief' of an attempt in integration of health education of patients as a part and parcel of treatment and management in hospitals in Kelantan is outlined. The methodology used in the context of local situation is described, problems and short-comings highlighted, and a few suggestions made including recommendations for further such trial efforts in other hospitals in the country.