Effects of Winters on Health of Newborns: A Case Study of Christian Community of Islamabad

Abstract

This research is qualitative study which aims to explore challenges faced by the marginalized Christian community regarding seeking the health care specifically keeping newborn health in view and the choice of treatment preferred for them e.g., ethnomedicine. Due to lower socio-economic conditions and living standard newborn get affected the most especially during winters due to lack of insolation and other facilities. This study also aims at highlighting the underlying believes which develop the mindset of the community. In Shakrial community, the belief over medical practitioners is lower and trend of taking modern medicine is not very highly encouraged due to lower income background and having less facilities. The immune system of the newborn is not fully developed to bear the side effects of the modern medicine that is why it is preferred to use ethnomedicine for various treatments especially in winters to treat flu and cold. Qualitative data collection tools such as semi-structured interview guide ad in-depth interviews were used for collecting data for the research and the data collected was analyzed based on thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the multiple challenges relating to administration, maternal health and health care system inefficiency. For overcoming these challenges some personal and some governmental assistance need to be given so better arrangement and health care services can be provided to them. This research also highlights the role of grandparents and elders in shaping the mindset and taking responsible measures. In addition, some necessary challenges need to be taken to curb these challenges.