Predictors of use of Animal-based Traditional Medicines as First Choice Medication when Unwell Amid Abundant Herbal and Orthodox Medicines – A Study in Ghana
Abstract:
Besides conventional medicines, traditional medicines are used globally for the management of ailments. Even in places where orthodox or herbal medicines are accessible and available, some persons patronise animal-based traditional medicines (ABM). This study assessed reasons and factors why a person will opt for ABM as their first choice when unwell. Data obtained from 264 buyers of raw animal parts meant for traditional medicine across 39 markets in Ghana was analysed using the Statistical Programme for the Social Sciences, Version 26. Results were presented in tables and charts while a multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess predictors. Using a confidence interval of 95%, an association between variables was assumed to be significant when p ≤ 0.05. Most buyers of ABM opted for orthodox medicines (41.7%) with only 12.3% choosing ABM when unwell. Up to 48.1% of these patrons use ABM for medical conditions while 47.0% apply them for spiritual or mystical purposes. Personal preference (21.4%), followed by affordability (17.9%) and fast-acting effect (17.9%) were the topmost reasons why patrons opted for ABM. Patrons with post-basic education were 29.8% less likely (cOR = 0.298; 95% CI = 0.09 -0.982; p-value = 0.047) while Traditional African Religion (TAR) believers were 2.6 times (cOR = 2.607; 95% CI = 1.011 – 6.722; p-value = 0.047) and married patrons, 3.5 times more likely to opt for ABM (17.5% vs 5.7%; cOR = 3.531; 95% CI = 1.019 – 12.321; p-value = 0.047). Religion was found as the only significant predictor (aOR=0.238; 95% CI = 0.075 – 0.757; p-value = 0.015). Attribution of spirituality to animals may account for their importance to TAR believers. ABM are therefore complementary or alternative medicines in Ghana.
