Evaluating the Perceptions of Modern Medicine Among Senegalese Citizens and the Effect on the Desire of Traditional Medical Practices Offered

Fogland, Lilian

Evaluating the Perceptions of Modern Medicine Among Senegalese Citizens and the Effect on the Desire of Traditional Medical Practices Offered

Persistent URL

https://dspace.allegheny.edu/handle/10456/56633

Author(s)

Fogland, Lilian

Date Issued

April 2023

Abstract

80% of Senegal’s population seek and use traditional medical practices despite the presence of modern medicine. Modern medicine was introduced in the country during the colonial period circa the mid-17th century. Healthcare is offered to citizens but there are issues of providing licensed personnel to rural regions to implement modern treatments. Population density in Senegal often determines the number and type of healthcare facilities available. Densely populated areas have more modern healthcare options than less populated rural villages. The goal of my research is to evaluate perceptions of modern medicine among Senegalese citizens and the effect on desire of traditional practices offered. This was done by finding what aspects contribute to citizens’ preferences and choice to utilize modern medicine or traditional medicine offered in urban areas, Dakar, to rural villages, Toubacouta. To evaluate perceptions of traditional and modern healthcare options in Senegal, an analysis of past and current relations with France through economic ties and medical influence is conducted. This is conducted jointly with an evaluation of current policies regulating modern and traditional practices. This study is able to evaluate how both systems work within Senegal's current political and economic climate in relation to socio-cultural aspects. Efforts are being made to legitimize traditional methodology while protecting and preserving the practice. Traditional medicine has potential to offer Senegal economic sovereignty and independence from France’s neocolonial rule by exporting medicinal products. It can offer more affordable, accessible, and accepted forms of healthcare to citizens. To do this, Senegal needs to initiate the same amount of research, regulation, and funding they do to modern medicine to create an effective dual system catering towards citizens’ preferences to treat and prevent illnesses and diseases.

Major

Global Health Studies

International Studies

First Reader(s)

Miller, Brian J.