Experience and Perception of Traditional Medicine Use at Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR

Souphaphone Sorsavanh; Chiobuaphong Phakeovilay; Sounantha Souvanlasy; Bounmy Sinaphet; Phetdalyvone Khounnoraj; Mayfong Mayxay; Mayfong Mayxay; Mayfong Mayxay; Mayfong Mayxay

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Experience and Perception of Traditional Medicine Use at Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR

Author: Souphaphone Sorsavanh ¹ ; Chiobuaphong Phakeovilay ¹ ; Sounantha Souvanlasy ¹ ; Bounmy Sinaphet ¹ ; Phetdalyvone Khounnoraj ¹ ; Mayfong Mayxay ² ; Mayfong Mayxay ³ ; Mayfong Mayxay ⁴ ; Mayfong Mayxay ⁵
Author Information

1. Faculty of Pharmacine, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
2. Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Research Unit (LOMWRU), Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao PDR
3. Centre for Tropical Medicine & Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
4. Institute of Research and Education Development (IRED), University of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
5. Saw Hwee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Experience, Perception, Traditional medicine, herbal medicine
From:Lao Medical Journal 2024;15(15):32-41
CountryLao People's Democratic Republic
Language:Lao
Abstract: Background: :Traditional medicine encompasses the collective knowledge, skills, and practices based on cultural theories, beliefs, and indigenous experiences. While herbal and traditional medicines are widely used, caution is warranted, particularly regarding products promoted by social media or the internet; as some are unregistered and may lack efficacy or safety. Knowledge derived from traditional healers can be valuable, yet is information and improper use remain concerns.
Objective: :This study aimed to assess the experience and perception of herbal and traditional medicine use among residents in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.
Methodology: :A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September to December 2023 in four villages across two districts of Vientiane Capital, selected via simple random sampling. Structured interviews were administered to 291 participants to collect data on their experience and perceptions regarding traditional medicine utilization.
Results: :Of the 291 respondents, 268 (92.1%) reported experiencing illness within the three months preceding the interview. Among these, 92.54% reported using traditional medicine (TM) for treatment. The majority perceived TM as effective, safe and compatible with modern medical treatments. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between the perception of TM as safer than modern medicine and its usage.
Conclusion: :Herbal and traditional medicines are commonly preferred as first-line treatments in accordance with government policy. These findings underscore the importance of promoting the correct and appropriate use of traditional medicine to optimize health outcomes.
Full text:2026030311184638137ບົດທີ 03.JR_Souphaphone_Sorsavanh_Final_Manuscript_(Format LMJ_15).pdf