Health Promotion Needs in Faith-Based Organizations: Perceptions of Religious Leaders in Bamako

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to explore imams ’ and pastors’ perspectives of the health promotion needs of congregants in Bamako, Mali and to examine the physical environment for health promotion in faith-based organizations’ (FBOs). In-depth one-on-one interviews were conducted with imams (n = 10) and pastors (n = 2) as well as observations of the physical environment in FBOs in Bamako, Mali. Data were analyzed using a content analysis approach guided by the social ecological model. Leaders frequently mentioned poverty and affordability as challenges perceived by congregants but congregants support eac h other with financial contributions. The main challenge mentioned was a lack of knowledge among leaders (primarily imams) about health and health programs.
Source: Journal of Religion and Health - Category: Medical Ethics Source Type: research