ISLAMIC CULTURES - HEALTH-CARE BELIEFS AND PRACTICES

This article provides an overview of Islam and Islamic health-care bel iefs and practices, as well as health-related social and spiritual iss ues. Major topics discussed are fundamental beliefs and themes in Isla m; health-care beliefs and practices common among Muslims; and health- affecting social roles among Muslims, including relations between sexe s and family structure. Cultural, religious, and social barriers to he alth care ape discussed, as are means of reducing the barriers and pro viding care. Pertinent quotes from the Koran are used throughout the a rticle to substantiate and illustrate important points.