Decolonising medical causality in the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Anthropology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global society, medicine, and economies.
• Traditional Western medical causality frameworks have advanced disease prevention and control.
• A broader perspective is needed to address global health challenges effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the integration of African and non-Western causality principles into global health strategies.
• To explore how decolonizing medical thought can improve health outcomes.
• To enrich the understanding of health by incorporating diverse causality models.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of Western and non-Western medical causality frameworks.
• Literature review on indigenous health principles and decolonization in medicine.
• Comparative analysis of public health approaches.

Main Results:

• Western models, while effective, are insufficient for addressing all global health complexities.
• Incorporating diverse causality principles can lead to more robust and equitable health interventions.
• Decolonizing medical thought offers new perspectives on health and disease prevention.

Conclusions:

• Adopting inclusive, decolonized approaches to medical causality is crucial for future pandemic preparedness.
• Integrating African and non-Western perspectives can significantly enhance global health practices and understanding.
• A multidisciplinary approach enriches medical practice and fosters a more comprehensive view of health.