Multicultural Blog. by Namkha Dema

Communication and Interaction in Afghan Culture.

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-26 00:04:56 UTC

Afghanistan, formally known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country in south-central Asia with Pashto and Dari as its primary languages. Pashto is spoken by about 40% of the population, while Dari is used by around 50% (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2024). Dari is the principal language for communication in government, media, and educational settings, making it essential for effective healthcare communication (Wikipedia Contributors, 2019). Many Afghans are multilingual, with English not commonly spoken, necessitating interpreters in healthcare settings (Southeastern National Tuberculosis Center, n.d.). Additionally, a common cultural practice in Afghanistan is placing the right hand over the heart as a sign of respect, a meaningful gesture in interactions (Information about Our Afghan Community, 2021).

References:

‌ Southeastern National Tuberculosis Center. (n.d.). Sntc.medicine.ufl.edu. https://sntc.medicine.ufl.edu/home/index#/products/153

Allchin, Raymond., Petrov, V., Ali, M., Dupree, L., Dupree, N., & Weinbaum, M. (2024). Afghanistan. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Afghanistan

Information about our Afghan community. (2021, September 9). Blogs. https://medicine.iu.edu/blogs/uncategorized/information-about-our-afghan-community#:~:text=People%20usually%20place%20their%20right

Wikipedia Contributors. (2019, April 30). Languages of Afghanistan. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Afghanistan

Religion and Spirituality in Afghanistan.

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-26 12:47:16 UTC

Most Afghans (99.7%) are Muslim, with Sunnis making up 89.7%, Shias about 10%, and a small percentage following other religions (Religion in Afghanistan, 2020). The introduction of Islam in the 7th century profoundly impacted Afghan daily life and culture. The five daily prayers, fasting throughout Ramadan, and celebrating Eid festivals are important customs (Religion in Afghanistan, 2020). Poetry and music are known to develop spiritual connections, and Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, is particularly significant (Religion in Afghanistan, 2020). Afghans display strength and social power by maintaining their religious traditions in times of conflict (IU School of Medicine, 2021).

Healthcare professionals should embrace spirituality and religion to improve communication, trust, respect, and

patient health outcomes (Recognizing the Importance of Cultural Competence in Health Care, 2022).

References:

IU School of Medicine. (2021). Information about Our Afghan Community. Blogs. https://medicine.iu.edu/blogs/uncategorized/Information-about-our-Afghan-community

Recognizing the Importance of Cultural Competence in Health Care. (2022). Medical Blog. https://www.sgu.edu/blog/medical/recognizing-the-importance-of-cultural-competence-in-health-care/

Religion in Afghanistan. (2020). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_Afghanistan

Afghan Food and Eating Habits.

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-26 13:21:44 UTC

Afghan cuisine includes rice, bread, meat, and vegetables.

Kabuli Pulao, a rice dish with raisins and lamb, is a staple. Naan, a flatbread, accompanies most meals (Wikipedia Contributors, 2019). Lamb, chicken, and beef are common proteins, often grilled or stewed. Vegetables like eggplant and spinach are used in dishes such as Borani Banjan and Sabzi ( Wikipedia Contributors, 2019). Dairy, especially yogurt, is integral; tea is the preferred beverage (Afghanistan, n.d.). Afghan dietary guidelines emphasize a balanced diet with diverse food groups, promoting health and cultural unity (Afghanistan, n.d.). Understanding patients' dietary practices helps healthcare providers create appropriate nutritional plans and respect their food preferences, improving patient satisfaction and adherence (Nemec, 2020).

References:

‌ Afghanistan. (n.d.). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. https://www.fao.org/nutrition/education/food-dietary-guidelines/regions/countries/afghanistan/en/

Nemec, K. (2020). Cultural Awareness of Eating Patterns in the Health Care Setting. Clinical Liver Disease, 16(5), 204–207. https://doi.org/10.1002/cld.1019

Wikipedia Contributors. (2019, May 12). Afghan cuisine. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghan_cuisine

The Impact of Social Inclusion and Non-Discrimination on Afghan Refugees in Australia

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-26 15:43:07 UTC

Social inclusion and non-discrimination are important for Afghan refugees in Australia and positively impact their health. Community participation can strengthen a sense of belonging, reduce isolation and improve health

outcomes (World Health Organization, 2022). Conversely, discrimination can lead to psychological problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety (Ziersch et al., 2020). Afghan refugees often face work and social problems, which further impact their health (Rezaei, 2021). Additionally, job interruptions and denial of qualifications affect their financial security, causing further stress and psychological problems (Rezaei, 2021). Addressing these determinants can enhance health outcomes by promoting equality and integration. Community awareness and support are essential to facilitate integration and improve overall health (World Health Organization, 2022).

References:

Rezaei, O. (2021). Afghan refugees face discrimination, employment and social challenges in Australia. ANMJ. https://anmj.org.au/afghan-refugees-face-discrimination-employment-and-social-challenges-in-australia/

WHO. (2022). Refugee and Migrant Health - Global. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/health-topics/refugee-and-migrant-health#tab=tab_1

Ziersch, A., Due, C., & Walsh, M. (2020). Discrimination: a health hazard for people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds resettled in Australia. BMC Public Health, 20(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-8068-3

Traditional Medicine in Afghanistan: Medicinal Plants.

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-27 10:09:43 UTC

Traditional medicine, especially the use of medicinal plants, still plays an important role in healthcare in Afghanistan. One commonly used plant is Ferula assa-foetida, which has been shown to reduce pain and aid digestion (Karamkhudoeva et al., 2021). Another is Nigella sativa (black cumin), known for its benefits in treating respiratory diseases and strengthening the immune system (Ayoubi et al., 2024). Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice root) is also used for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help with respiratory health(Mail.gov.af, 2024). Understanding traditional medicine and healing is important for doctors to provide culturally sensitive care and build trust with patients from diverse cultures.

References:

‌ Ayoubi, R., Amir Kabir Raufi, Bashir Ahmad Bashir, & Hadiqa Nowrozi. (2024). Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Common Parasitic Diseases by Traditional Practitioners in Kabul City, Afghanistan. Traditional Medicine, 5(1), 1–9. https://www.traditionalmedicines.org/scholarly-articles/https:www_traditionalmedicines_orgarticlesmedicinal-plants-used-for-the-treatment-of-common-parasitic-diseases-by-traditional-practitioners-in-kabul-city-afghanistan_pdf.pdf

Karamkhudoeva, M., Laldjebaev, M., Ruelle, M. L., & Kassam, K.-A. S. (2021). Medicinal Plants and Health Sovereignty in Badakhshan, Afghanistan: Diversity, Stewardship, and Gendered Knowledge. Human Ecology, 49(6), 809–829. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10745-021-00270-9

Mail.gov.af. (2024). Cultivation of medicinal plants; Treatment instead of pain. http://www.mail.gov.af

Principal Health Issues in Afghan Refugees.

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-27 14:47:38 UTC

Afghan refugees often experience mental health issues due to their traumatic experiences (Mental Health» Australian Refugee Health, n.d.) and most of them in Australia struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) because of the agonizing conflict and displacement they endured (Centre, n.d.). These problems become more severe when moving to a new country, including language barriers, unstable housing, financial stress, difficulties finding employment, and conflicts between society and culture (Australian Refugee Health» Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds, n.d.).

Evidence-based research shows that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a culturally adaptive treatment method, effectively reduces depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms in Afghan refugee children and adolescents by addressing trauma and negative thought patterns (Lawton & Spencer, 2021).

References:

Australian Refugee Health» Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds. (n.d.). https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/

Centre, T. M. H. (n.d.). Afghan Community Mental Health Profile. Www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au. https://www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/transcultural-mental-health-centre-tmhc/resources/community-mental-health-profiles-and-information-resources/afghan-community-mental-health-profile#:~:text=Many%20Afghan%20people%20living%20in

Lawton, K., & Spencer, A. (2021). A Full Systematic Review on the Effects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Mental Health Symptoms in Child Refugees. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-021-01151-5

Reflective Blog Post on Domain 1: Clinical Expert (Competency 1.1)

namkhadeyma605 — 2024-08-28 08:43:24 UTC

The Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice Framework emphasizes integrating cultural awareness into healthcare. For me, the most important aspect of Competency Standard 1.1 is understanding how to provide care that respects a patient's culture and traditions (Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice, 2019). If I were to encounter a refugee patient who refuses treatment because of their religious beliefs, my first thought would be that the standard care would be sufficient. However, this situation highlights the need for cultural sensitivity. Having analyzed this scenario, I now understand that developing culturally informed care plans is essential to patient-centered care (Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice, 2019). This knowledge is vital because I hadn’t fully considered cultural contexts before, but I now recognize the need to proactively assess these factors in future patient care (Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice, 2019).

Reference:

Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds COMPETENCY STANDARDS FRAMEWORK FOR CLINICIANS. (2019). https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Culturally-responsive-clinical-practice-Working-with-people-from-migrant-and-refugee-backgrounds-Jan2019.pdf