Publication: Ogbanje Phenomenon; Mothers Perception, and Childhood Morbidity MORBIDITY
Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nepal Paediatric Society (JNPS)
Abstract
Abstract:
Introduction: A cultural myth Ogbanje have existed among the Ibo people of Nigeria. These children may have morbidities that are manageable while some normal children may have to live with the stigma of being labelled such. The objective of this study was to assess mother’s perception of ogbanje phenomenon and morbidity in ogbanje children.
Material and Methods: This was a Cross-sectional study amongst mothers having the concept of “Ogbanje” children who were clinically examined. SPSS version 20.0 was used for data analysis. Variables were compared with χ2. p<0.05 was accepted as significant.
Results: A total of 64.8% believed in “Ogbanje”. Commonest presentation of “Ogbanje” was frequent illness (47.3%). Only 12(3.3%) would seek orthodox care for ogbanje children. Examined “ogbanje” children had sicklecell anaemia, structural anomalies, and diabetes. Four (9.5%; n=42) children were normal.
Conclusion: Ogbanje myth still exists in the minds of mothers and affects health seeking behaviour. Ogbanje children may have manageable illness and sometimes may be normal.
Description
U. Anyanwu Onyinye
Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
T. Eseonu Chinonyelum
Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
B. Ezeanosike Obumneme
Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
O. Cliford Okike
Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
C. Roland Ibekwe
Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
Keywords
Ogbanje, Mother’s perception, Childhood morbidity