Through our interviews we learned that alternative health practices are often used by Bosnian refugees.  These, however, usually concern minor health ailments, and are similar to how many Americans attempt to treat themselves at home.  Fatmir Hiseni, a Bosnian interpreter, told us that some people from Bosnia use special herbs and foods when they are sick. Lidija Hamzic, a Bosnian refugee well-known in the community, stated that she knows many home remedies.  An example she provided was in treating a cold sore on the lip..  Lidija said that she advises people to put toothpaste on the cold sore overnight.  
    Different cultures have different ideas on what it means to be "healthy."  For some it is much more holistic than others, incorporating their spiritual, mental, and physical health.  In the book, The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, it is made clear that knowing about alternative ideas of what constitutes illness and health is important.  It is detrimental to the patient if the medical staff and parents cannot communicate properly about a medical problem. 

Health Practices and Beliefs of Muslims

It is important to understand that not all Bosnians are Muslims, and even those who are may possess "liberal" beliefs under their religion.  Therefore, some of the following information on Muslims does not apply to all the Bosnians in Utica.  Furthermore, some health beliefs, such as abortion, move beyond religion and are universal beliefs within their culture.  Abortion is viewed negatively by most Bosnians, regardless of their religious affiliation (interview with Lidija Hamzic).

The following statements represent dominant view points held by Muslims, however, many of these may be negotiable. Vesna Sin, a Bosnian refugee living in Utica, NY, feels that one should learn the little things when dealing with a patient and simply ask if it is all right to perform specific treatments or prescribe certain medicines. As Vesna states, "One should not jump to conclusions without asking."

The following information was provided by the Mohawk Valley Resource Refugee Center in Utica, NY:

· One’s left hand is thought to be unclean and food should not be handled with it.

· Insulin with a pork base may be refused.

· Immediately after birth, a father may whisper a prayer into the newborn’s ear, thus placing God as the center of the newborn and making the baby a member of the Islamic community.

· The infant’s Islamic name will be given seven days after birth.  Circumcision is also performed seven days after birth, and is thought of as a way of purifying the male child. Circumcision is usually completed by the age of ten.

· Any type of birth control is acceptable, however, vasectomies are not permitted. Suvada Veiz, a refugee living in Utica, NY, states, "Many Bosnians have no problem with most birth control pills, pap smears, etc."

· Abortion is acceptable only if rape or incest is involved, or the mother’s life is at risk.