Anthropological perspectives on injections: a review

Abstract

Qualitative studies from developing countries have pointed to the widespread popularity of injections. In addition to their use by formal and informal providers and traditional healers, there is now increasing evidence of the use of injections and injection equipment by lay people. Epidemiological research links the large number of unsafe injections to serious bloodborne infections such as viral hepatitis B and C and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The present article examines the reasons behind the demand for injections by consumers and the administration of unnecessary or unsafe injections by different types of provider. Interventions aimed at reducing the risk of unsafe injections are discussed in relation to cultural and social factors as well as those factors associated with health systems. Suggestions are made for approaches to the design of such interventions.

PIP: This paper reviews the anthropological perspectives on injections. Qualitative studies from developing countries have pointed out the widespread popularity of injections, which varies according to the culture concerned. Injections are seen as an outstanding symbol of biomedicine and have often been portrayed as such in health and vaccination campaigns. There is now increasing evidence of the use of injections and injection equipment by lay people. Epidemiological research links a large number of unsafe injections to serious bloodborne infections such as viral hepatitis B and C and AIDS. This article examines the reasons for the increasing demand of injections by consumers and the administration of unnecessary or unsafe injections by different types of provider. Furthermore, interventions to reduce the number of unnecessary injections are discussed in relation to cultural and social factors, as well as those associated with health systems. Suggested approaches useful in the design of such interventions are outlined.