Understanding the health beliefs and practices of East African refugees

Objectives: To explore East African refugees' perceptions, ideas, and beliefs about health and health care, as well as the ways in which health information is shared within their communities. Methods: This study consisted of 2 focus groups with a total of 15 participants, including East African community leaders and health professionals. Results: East African refugees in the United States have strong cultural, religious, and traditional health practices that shape their health behavior and influence their interactions with Western health care systems. Conclusions: Health care providers who understand refugees' beliefs about health may achieve more compliance with refugee patients.