Exploring the impact of religion, superstition, and professional cultural competence on access to HIV and mental health treatment among Black Sub-Sahara African communities in the English city of Birmingham

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Nyashanu, M. ORCID: 0000-0002-9231-0393, Ganga, G. and Chenneville, T., 2021. Exploring the impact of religion, superstition, and professional cultural competence on access to HIV and mental health treatment among Black Sub-Sahara African communities in the English city of Birmingham. Journal of Religion and Health. ISSN 0022-4197

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-021-01298-3

Abstract

HIV and mental health are sensitive subjects among Black Sub-Saharan African (BSSA) communities despite the disproportionate impact of HIV among this population and high comorbidity between HIV and mental disorders. This study explored the impact of religion, superstition, and professional cultural competence on access to HIV and mental health services among BSSA communities in the English city of Birmingham. Researchers utilised explorative qualitative methods. Specifically, 12 focus groups were conducted followed by a semi-structured interview with a member from each focus group. Data were analysed using a thematic approach guided by the four phases of the silences framework. Results suggest that religion, superstition, and professional cultural competence affect access to HIV and mental health services among BSSA communities. Findings indicate a need to educate religious leaders on the impact of HIV and mental health stigma as well as a need for cultural competence training among health professionals.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

Journal of Religion and Health

Creators:

Nyashanu, M., Ganga, G. and Chenneville, T.

Publisher:

Springer

Date:

3 June 2021

ISSN:

0022-4197