The Physician, The Patient And Religion – Any Conflict? A Fatal Case Of Brain Tumor In A 28 Year Old Nigerian Youth Corps Lawyer

Abstract

Religion consists of man's total relationship with his God (god), and is an integral part of a people's culture. Health in the African setting and indeed in Ibo land is for the most part an evidence of a harmonious relationship with God (gods), while ill health is therefore perceived to be the consequence of vengeance by the God/gods (evil spirit or spiritual attack) on the offending mortal2. Though the advent of Christianity and western civilization has greatly altered the socio-cultural milieu in the past few centuries, this concept is still strongly held by some religious sects whose members are forbidden from taking medications or undergoing surgery when they fall sick, irrespective of their level of education or enlightenment in the society3. This paper discusses the fatal case of a single female Nigerian Youth Corps Lawyer who developed brain tumor with symptoms lasting for more than three years before ‘the wish of her God/gods was done'.


Jnl Med. Investigation & Practice Vol. 3 2001: 57-59