ANUYE, Steve Paul, PhD
Abstract
Leprosy and tuberculosis were major health concerns during the pre-colonial period in the Taraba area, as the local population held various beliefs and explanations for these diseases. This paper gives a historical overview of myths, causation and treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis in the pre-colonial Taraba Area. The research relied on a historical approach while drawing from both primary and secondary sources of data. The primary sources include oral interviews, archival materialsetcetera. The secondary sourcesincludebooks, journals, and internetmaterials. The paper has observed that control measures against diseases in the pre-colonial Taraba area have often been poor, as the State has not yet achieved the goal of eliminating some of the key diseases outlined in the paper (tuberculosis and leprosy), a reason for the prevalence of the disease up till date. The paper suggests that there is a need for the government, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to adopt a holistic approach in their attempt to eliminate the disease while endeavouring to adequately fund all necessary programmes against the disease.
Introduction
Leprosy and Tuberculosis (TB) have been major health issues, impacting communities across the world, including traditional African societies. Cultural beliefs and myths frequently impact awareness of these diseases in various countries, altering opinions about their etiology and treatment. Traditional African communities are varied, with a vast range of…