Last update:
   30-May-2013
 

Arch Hellen Med, 30(2), March-April 2013, 229-231

SHORT COMMUNICATION

Interreligious medicine: Islam, special consideration of religious beliefs

M. Marioras,1 T. Rosenberg2
1Faculty of Theology, School of Theology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens,
2First University Department of Surgery, "Laiko" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece

In this paper, the relationship between religious beliefs and medical treatment is studied, especially in the case of Muslim patients. The importance is stressed of the awareness of the doctor treating Muslim patients of their dietary habits and their attitudes towards medication and other aspects of therapeutic procedures. The stance is described of female Muslim patients towards physical examination and various therapeutic interventions. Practical issues dealing with the hospitalization of Muslim patients are also presented. It is argued that the therapeutic plan for Muslim patients needs to take into account their religious convictions and make beneficial use of certain aspects of the religion of Islam, such as the Ramadan fasting, the daily prayers and Jihad.

Key words: Interreligious medicine, Islam, Medical treatment, Muslim patients.

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