August 17, 2006 EMBARGO: Immediate Release CANADA, INTERNATIONAL AIDS CONFERENCE: Manto Tshabalala-Msimang’s recent statement in support of traditional healers’ medicine once again highlights Doctors For Life International’s (DFL) concerns surrounding the use of traditional medicine. In 2004 DFL appealed to Parliament to institute a system by which traditional healers’ medicines and practices could be scientifically evaluated before recognising it. This was ignored. DFL therefore once again appeals to the Minister of Health to entrench scientific validation of all medicines in order to ensure the well-being of all South Africans – especially those suffering with AIDS. On Monday the Minister opened the Khomanani display at the International AIDS Conference in Toronto. When the absence of anti-retrovirals was queried, the Minister replied that people have a right to choose to use traditional medicine as opposed to scientifically validated medicine. DFL is of the opinion that the government should protect the population by making sure that only treatment that has been scientifically tested and proven not to be harmful is available on the market. DFL’s submission to Parliament included various concerns surrounding the scientific incompatibility in the method and application of traditional medicine. Many people suffer serious side-effects due to the use of traditional medicines, of which the ingredients have neither been tested nor verified. There is a general consensus in many African countries that there should be measures to make sure that the component of witchcraft is separated from traditional medicine. DFL, an association of more than 1000 medical doctors and specialists across South Africa and the globe, remains committed to the holistic health of all South Africans. DFL’s activities include HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, as well as home based care of terminal AIDS patients in rural communities. For more information visit www.doctorsforlifeinternational.com
'Doctors for Life International' represents more than 1400 medical doctors and specialists, three-quarters of who practice in South Africa. Since 1991 DFL has been actively promoting health care that is safe and efficient for all South Africans. DFL was founded as a South African organization in 1991 and has spread across the globe. DFL is involved in several community projects including orphan care, the care of terminal AIDS patients, malaria prevention and the care of abused women. |