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[The indigestion cure: a common and dangerous practice]
G Cortés-Gallo1, M A Hernández-González, M A Ayala-García
1Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Guanajuato, León, México.
Boletin Medico Del Hospital Infantil De Mexico
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Folk illness empacho is widely believed to be a serious condition, especially in lower socioeconomic groups. Treatments often involve dangerous practices like ingesting oils or powders, posing significant health risks.
Area of Science:
- Folk medicine and public health.
- Cross-cultural health practices.
- Gastrointestinal folk illnesses.
Context:
- Empacho is a prevalent folk illness concept in Leon, Guanajuato.
- Belief in empacho is more common in low and medium socioeconomic strata.
- Understanding cultural health beliefs is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose:
- To investigate contemporary concepts and treatments for empacho.
- To critically assess the risks associated with empacho remedies.
- To inform public health strategies regarding folk medicine practices.
Summary:
- A survey of 519 families in Leon, Guanajuato, revealed that 45.9% view empacho as serious.
- Commonly reported empacho concept is 'something stuck in the gut,' treated with massage, herbs, oils, or powders.
- Dangerous practices like ingesting cooking oil or unknown powders are prevalent.
Impact:
- Empacho treatments carry risks of lipid pneumonia, poisoning, and neurological or respiratory damage.
- High prevalence necessitates public health education on safe health practices.
- Findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive healthcare interventions.