Background of the study:
Cultural myths and beliefs significantly influence health-seeking behavior in many Nigerian communities. In Akure South Local Government, Ondo State, such myths often shape the treatment and perception of snakebites. Many residents attribute snakebites to supernatural causes or divine retribution, resulting in reliance on traditional remedies rather than conventional medical treatment (Fadare, 2023; Akinola, 2024). These cultural narratives are perpetuated by community elders and traditional healers who hold considerable influence over health practices. The prevalent myths may delay critical interventions required to manage snakebite envenomation, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Recent studies highlight the need for culturally informed public health education to dispel harmful myths and promote evidence-based treatment (Ogun, 2025). This study seeks to examine the extent to which cultural myths influence treatment decisions and the subsequent health outcomes in snakebite cases, offering insights into effective strategies for integrating traditional beliefs with modern medical protocols (Bello, 2023).
Statement of the problem:
In Akure South, pervasive cultural myths about snakebites often result in delayed or inappropriate treatment. The reliance on traditional myths over medical intervention poses serious health risks, including increased complications and fatalities. Misinterpretations of snakebite etiology hinder timely hospital visits and appropriate use of antivenom, exacerbating health outcomes. Furthermore, limited public health education about the dangers of such myths perpetuates these practices (Solomon, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
To investigate prevalent cultural myths regarding snakebites.
To assess the impact of these myths on treatment-seeking behavior.
To recommend culturally sensitive strategies to improve snakebite management.
Research questions:
What are the dominant cultural myths about snakebites in Akure South?
How do these myths influence treatment-seeking behavior?
What measures can be implemented to integrate cultural beliefs with medical treatment?
Research Hypotheses:
Cultural myths significantly delay the initiation of appropriate medical treatment for snakebites.
Communities with strong adherence to traditional beliefs experience higher snakebite morbidity.
Culturally tailored educational programs can improve timely medical intervention.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it underscores the need to address cultural myths that hinder effective snakebite treatment. By integrating traditional beliefs with modern healthcare education, the research offers actionable insights for reducing snakebite-related complications and mortality (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to examining the impact of cultural myths on snakebite treatment within Akure South Local Government, focusing solely on local cultural beliefs and treatment practices.
Definitions of terms:
Cultural myths: Traditional beliefs and narratives that explain phenomena through non-scientific explanations.
Snakebite envenomation: The physiological effects resulting from the injection of snake venom.
Treatment-seeking behavior: The actions taken by individuals in response to health issues, including the choice of traditional versus modern remedies.
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