The Impact of Traditional Healers on Health Outcomes for Diarrheal Diseases

Mutebi Mark

Department of Pharmacology Kampala International University Uganda

Email: mark.mutebi@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Traditional healers play a significant role in healthcare, particularly in rural sub-Saharan Africa, where access to biomedical treatments is often limited. This paper examines the impact of traditional healing practices on managing diarrheal diseases, one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, especially among children and women. By examining historical and cultural significance, epidemiological factors, traditional treatment methods, and empirical evidence on healer efficacy, this study highlights both the strengths and limitations of traditional healing. While biomedical approaches remain the dominant treatment method, there is growing recognition of the potential benefits of integrating traditional healers into mainstream healthcare systems. The findings suggest that a combined approach could enhance healthcare accessibility and effectiveness, particularly in underserved areas.

Keywords: Traditional healers, diarrheal diseases, sub-Saharan Africa, alternative medicine, biomedical integration, public health.

CITE AS: Mutebi Mark (2025). The Impact of Traditional Healers on Health Outcomes for Diarrheal Diseases. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 5(1):36-40. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2025/513640