Abstract

Hypertension remains a major health challenge in Western Uganda, where cultural beliefs and traditional practices 
significantly influence its management. This narrative review explores the intersection of cultural beliefs and 
hypertension treatment, highlighting the impact of traditional healing practices, social dynamics, and attitudes 
toward modern medicine. In Western Uganda, where diverse ethnic groups coexist, health is perceived as a holistic 
balance of physical, spiritual, and social factors, which often leads to hypertension being understood as a spiritual or 
moral issue rather than a medical condition. Traditional healers play a central role in managing hypertension, but 
their reliance on herbal remedies and spiritual interventions can delay proper medical treatment. Additionally, 
mistrust of modern medicine and cultural stigmas surrounding chronic illness hinder treatment adherence. Despite 
these challenges, integrating cultural beliefs into healthcare strategies presents an opportunity for improving 
hypertension management. Collaborative approaches that respect cultural practices while promoting modern 
medical interventions could enhance patient outcomes and treatment adherence, ultimately reducing the burden of 
hypertension in the region.