Overcoming Sociocultural Barriers: Pathway To Effective Clubfoot Treatment In Cameroon

Child With Untreated Clubfoot By Raymond Dingana If there is one significant stumbling block in the way of clubfoot treatment in Cameroon, it is sociocultural barriers. This explains why calls have emerged from various sectors of society, urging community members to dismantle these barriers affecting clubfoot treatment, particularly in the North West Region. What is Clubfoot? Clubfoot is a condition where a baby's foot is twisted out of shape or position, causing it to point downward and inward. The front of the foot turns in and down, while the sole may face backward. This common congenital birth defect can be effectively treated, especially when addressed early. The Impact of Sociocultural Barriers Unfortunately, sociocultural barriers hinder access to clubfoot treatment, prompting calls for their removal. Tamon James, the National Coordinator of the Cameroon Clubfoot Care Program at the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, emphasizes that these barriers are detri...