ABSTRACT
<B>Introduction</B><BR>This study's aim was to determine how the villagers' concept of health and health seeking behavior were affected by attributes, self-rated health and the Health Locus of Control (HLC) in Southern Lao P.D.R. (Laos).<BR>The results of this study may be used to assist those involved with health work in Laos.<BR><B>Methods</B><BR>In June 2009, the study was conducted in the L District of Savannakhet Province, Laos. Out of 141 people over 20 years old approached, of whom 70 were men and 71 women, 138 completed the questionnaire (97.8%).<BR>The concept of health was examined by descriptive analysis, and the self-rated health was described by age through logistic regression analysis. A chi-squared test by sex and academic background was also conducted. Each health behavior was analyzed using multiple regression analysis by age, sex, academic background, self-rated health and the HLC.<BR><B>Results</B><BR>The concept of health was described as “<I>sabay </I>(comfortable)” or “<I>sabay-dee </I>(comfortable and good)”. There was statistical difference of self-rated health between ages, but none between sexes.<BR>For the influence of health behavior factors, “Elderly”, “Modernization”, “Advanced medicine”, “Self-effort”and “feeling unwell” were extracted. When villagers feel unwell, they have access to both vitamin injection (modern medicine) and “Mo-lao”(traditional medicine).<BR><B>Conclusions</B><BR>The villagers' concept of health in the subject area was determined by not only the physical, but also the spiritual well-being of the society.<BR>Elderly people used both traditional and modern medicine. Further study may be required to show how the villagers, who use either modern or traditional medicine determine their health seeking behavior.<BR>It is also suggested to provide those villagers with adequate information about medical resources and nutrition.
ABSTRACT
<b>Introduction:</b> The main objective of this study is to clarify the daily life and social support system for the children with cerebral palsy in Vientiane Municipality, Lao P. D. R.<br><b>Methods:</b> Twenty school-age children with cerebral palsy who need help in most of their activities in daily life, and their families were interviewed in their homes. Data on15 children were suitable for analysis. Two of these 15 children were observed for 5 consecutive days, and their daily activities and interactions with family members and other people were recorded.<br><b>Results:</b> Few public social welfare services were provided by specialized staff. Family members provided most of the children's care. However, although the children's activities were limited to their homes and immediate surroundings, the children had extensive contact with extended family members and neighbors, including other children.<br><b>Discussion:</b> The social welfare system in Vientiane Municipality is still underdeveloped. However existing community networks for watching over children offer significant potential for community based care for children with disabilities.