Family Medicine
Volume 28, Issue 4, 1996, Pages 271-276

Using explanatory models to understand chronic symptoms of Cambodian refugees (Article)

Handelman L. , Yeo G.*
  • a Division of Family Medicine, Stanford Univ. School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
  • b Division of Family Medicine, Stanford Univ. School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States, Stanford Geriatric Education Center, 703 Welch Road, H-1, Stanford, CA 94305-0151, United States

Abstract

Background: Case reports indicate that understanding patients' 'explanatory models' can improve diagnosis, patient compliance, and satisfaction. However, few studies have examined explanatory models within specific cultural groups to understand their symptoms. Methods: Seventy-six older Cambodian refugees were interviewed using measures of symptom frequency, explanatory models, help-seeking patterns, and use of traditional Cambodian remedies. Psychiatric patients were compared with non-patients. Results: Headache was the most common symptom, reported by 58% of those interviewed, and also the most frequent chief complaint (41%). Headache was reported in both groups but was reported by significantly more psychiatric patients. Headache was positively associated with the diagnosis of depression. More than half explained their headaches as a result of sadness, grief, and anxiety. Explanatory models did not differ significantly between groups. All participants maintained Cambodian medical beliefs, and 83% used traditional Cambodian remedies. Conclusions: Results suggest a high prevalence of headache among older Cambodian refugees, for whom it may be a manifestation of depression. Emphasis on this somatic complaint does not preclude patients' recognition of psychological factors. Addressing explanatory models can help clinicians determine underlying etiology and understand challenging patients.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

patient care depression Models, Psychological Cambodia disease activity Refugees middle aged Interview, Psychological chronic disease United States Humans headache male female cultural factor patient satisfaction patient education Article patient compliance Cultural Characteristics

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-0029929589&partnerID=40&md5=f6735967281ed3095b0174418919467f

ISSN: 07423225
Cited by: 11
Original Language: English