SOCIO-CULTURAL FRONTIERS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE: SOME REFLECTIONS FROM MAHABUBNAGAR DISTRICT, TELANGANA STATE

Abstract

This paper highlights into the intricate relationship between culture and healthcare beliefs and practices within Mahbubnagar district by going deeper into the profound influence of cultural factors on health-related perceptions and remedies. Traditional healthcare for various of diseases was explored from socio-cultural point of view.  The study has conducted in a backward district in Telangana state with the help of interview schedule, case studies and interviews.  The findings unveil a rich needlepoint of cultural traditions that shape healthcare behaviours. Apart from beliefs, the traditional remedies that rooted in the local ecosystem for cold and cough, toothaches, earache, constipation, hair loss,  and so on were emphasized in the study. These findings point out the significance of cultural competence in healthcare delivery and provide valuable insights into the community's deep connection with cultural and ecological factors in shaping their healthcare practices.