Preprint / Version 1

Exploring Muslims’ Health-Related Behaviours in Portugal: Any Impact on Quotidian Community Pharmacy Practice?

Authors

  • Aisha Omar Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies (Social Pharmacy), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1640-003 Lisboa, Portugal; [email protected] (A.O.); [email protected] (G.D.)
  • Grishma Dramce Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies (Social Pharmacy), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1640-003 Lisboa, Portugal; [email protected] (A.O.); [email protected] (G.D.)
  • Dragana Lakic Department of Social Pharmacy and Pharmacy Legislation, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia; [email protected]
  • Afonso Cavaco Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies (Social Pharmacy), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1640-003 Lisboa, Portugal; [email protected] (A.O.); [email protected] (G.D.)

Keywords:

community pharmacy, inter-cultural practice, Islamic medicine, Muslims, Portugal

Abstract

Muslims are a growing community in European countries. General health habits, including therapy-related behaviours, have been described, though implications to pharmacy practice might vary with the local dominant culture and setting. This exploratory study aimed to describe Muslims’ prevalent health and medication-related practices and possible implications for culturally competent community pharmacy practice. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was administered to a convenient sample of 100 participants at Lisbon Central Mosque, Portugal. Demographics, dietary, Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) and religious practices were examined, including health conditions and conventional biomedical treatments. Participant reported ailments (26%) were aligned with prevalent conditions in the general population. Ill participants were significantly associated with TAIM and Islamic dictates (p < 0.05), particularly Zam-Zam water and milk thistle usage. Participants’ orientation to dietary options and Qur’an restrictions were observed regarding forbidden substances in medication, raising issues on medication adherence for some oral dosage forms. TAIM and religious beliefs supplement illness recovery and health improvement instead of replacing conventional healthcare in a religious minority well integrated within the dominant culture. Portuguese community pharmacists should not neglect religious specificities if seamless care is delivered, enhancing professionals’ collaboration skills with multicultural patients. Keywords: community pharmacy, inter-cultural practice, Islamic medicine, Muslims, Portugal