Multicultural Blog - SUDANESE by Trinh Đỗ Xuân Phương

TRADITIONAL MEDICINES

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-14 08:32:26 UTC

Sudan's traditional medicine is a rich blend of Islamic, Arabic, and African practices, widely used in rural and poor communities as a primary healthcare resource (Karar et al, 2017). It relies heavily on medicinal plants to treat a variety of ailments, including microbial infections, gastrointestinal issues, malaria, diabetes, and respiratory disorders (Karar et al, 2017). Commonly used plant parts include leaves, roots, bark, seeds, and fruits (Karar et al, 2017). These parts are prepared in various forms, such as decoctions, infusions, powders, and poultices (Karar et al, 2017). Traditional medicine in Sudan is deeply rooted in cultural heritage and often aligns with modern pharmacological findings, though further research is needed to fully validate its efficacy and safety.

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Karar, M. G. E., & Kuhnert, N. (2017). Herbal Drugs from Sudan: Traditional Uses and Phytoconstituents. Pharmacogn Rev, 11(22), 83-103. https://doi: 10.4103/phrev.phrev_15_15

EFFECT OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS ON SUDANESE REFUGEES

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-14 08:55:42 UTC

Social inclusion and non-discrimination are crucial determinants of health for Sudanese refugees resettling in Australia (WHO, nd). Murray's study (2010) shows that participants initially felt welcomed in Australia, benefiting from positive influences like social connections that helped their adaptation and acculturation process. However, they also faced challenges, such as issues with resettlement programs and experiences of discrimination (Murray, 2010). This can impact the psychological well-being and mental health of refugees (Murray,2010; Milner, 2010). The stress may manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, depression, or a sense of isolation (Milner, 2010).

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Milner K., & Khawaja NG. Sudanese Refugees in Australia: The Impact of Acculturation Stress. Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology. 2010;4(1):19-29. https://doi:10.1375/prp.4.1.19

Murray KE. Sudanese Perspectives on Resettlement in Australia. Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology. 2010;4(1):30-43. https://doi:10.1375/prp.4.1.30

World Health Organization. Social determinants of Health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1

REFLECT ON DOMAIN 1: CLINICAL EXPERT

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-16 08:59:05 UTC

I initially believed that health care was a universal practice, equally applicable to all. However, I have since recognized that cultural considerations are essential, particularly when working with people from refugee backgrounds. Having analyzed the importance of recognizing the impact of refugee-like experiences on health from Domain 1, I now understand that traumatic events, post-traumatic stress disorder, and the unique challenges of resettlement significantly influence health outcomes and care needs. If I do not consider this consideration, there might be a chance that my patient will not receive the optimal treatment. I plan to apply this knowledge by providing trauma-informed care, incorporating person-centered communication, and ensuring a safe clinical environment. This approach will help me modify my care to meet the specific needs of refugees, ultimately improving their health outcomes.

SUDAN REFUGEE HEALTH CONCERNS

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-21 02:51:46 UTC

Refugees from Sudan often arrive in Australia with a range of health issues due to prolonged exposure to conflict, displacement, and limited access to healthcare (Michael et al., 2013). These experiences can affect individuals' health, mental health, understanding of health issues, treatment adherence, and access to care (Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership, 2019). One common health concern is mental health disorders, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide, to manage persistent psychological and psychosomatic symptoms, it is recommended to build a trusting relationship and allow adequate time for patients to discuss their experiences, as well as offer both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, including referrals to specialized services for survivors of trauma.

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Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. (n.d). Management of psychological effects of torture or other traumatic events.

https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/psychological-effects-of-torture-trauma/

Michael, S., Anna, C. H., Mahmood, M. A., Moore, V. (2013). Separation from family and its impact on the mental health of Sudanese refugees in Australia: a qualitative study. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health,37(4),

https://doi.org/10.1111/1753-6405.12088.

Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership. (2019). Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds: Competency Standards Framework for Clinicians. Culture Diverse Health. https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/competency-standards/about-the-standards/

TRADITIONAL DANCING

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-21 03:18:36 UTC

In Sudan, dance is deeply influenced by traditional lifestyles, particularly among the Dinka people, who are primarily cattle herders. Men often create songs and perform dances centered around their oxen, reflecting their cultural connection to cattle and their role in daily life.

RELIGION

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-21 03:42:54 UTC

In Sudan, the predominant religion is Islam, with the majority of the population adhering to Sunni Islam and participating in various religious brotherhoods, such as the Qādiriyyah, Khatmiyyah, and Mahdiyyah (Sikainga et al., 2024). Christianity has a historical presence but is now practiced by a small percentage of the population, primarily in the Nuba Mountains, with efforts from European missionaries contributing to its presence (Sikainga et al., 2024). Traditional animist religions are also practiced by a minority, particularly in the Nuba Mountains, where beliefs involve a supreme deity and spiritual intermediaries (Sikainga et al., 2024).

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Sikainga, A. A.,Spaulding, J. L., Collins, R. O., Al-Shahi, A. S., Sabr, M. D., Economic Intelligence Unit. (2024). Sudan. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Sudan

SUDAN OVERVIEW

phuongtrinhsuho — 2024-08-21 07:05:44 UTC

Sudan, located in Northeast Africa, is a culturally diverse country with a population of over 44 million people and borders several countries including Egypt, Libya, and South Sudan (Sikainga et al., 2024). It has a rich history shaped by its ethnic diversity, and its capital, Khartoum, is notably where the Blue and White Nile rivers meet (Sikainga et al., 2024). Arabic and English are the most common languages spoken here (Sikainga et al., 2024).

Sikainga, A. A., Spaulding, J. L., Collins, R. O., Al-Shahi, A. S., Sabr, M. D., Economic Intelligence Unit. (2024). Sudan. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Sudan