![]() The present study sought Tswana THPs perspectives about the management of diabetes and hypertension. Globally, it has been estimated that 1.39 billion people are affected by hypertension while 300 million people are estimated to be diabetic by the year 2025. The two leading causes of cardiovascular diseases and their complications are diabetes and hypertension. Similarly, a study conducted in Zambia reported the treatment of hypertension among THPs in Zambia. ![]() A research carried out in South Africa revealed the treatment of diabetes among THPs and faith healers in the northern province of South Africa. ![]() The role played by THPs in the treatment and management of these two diseases (diabetes and hypertension) across the African continent has been documented. In South Africa, a study reported that there were four groups of THPs recognized by the South African traditional healers act, namely: herbalists (izinyanga or amaxhwele), diviners (izangoma, umthandazi or amagqirha), traditional surgeons (iingcibi). Furthermore, WHO defines Traditional Health Practitioner(THP) as, “a person who is recognised by the community where he or she lives as someone competent to provide health care by using plant, animal, mineral substances and other methods based on social, cultural and religious practices”. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "traditional medicine refers to health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal and mineral-based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques, and exercises applied singularly or in combination to treat, diagnose and prevent illnesses or maintain well-being". In most African communities where access to hospitals and clinics remains a challenge, patronage of Traditional Medicine (TM) with the help of Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) offer people the opportunity to manage certain diseases affecting their wellbeing and health in general.
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