Medicine
The Influence of Cultural Beliefs on Maternal Health Care Utilization
Quick fact
In some communities, cultural beliefs such as the fear of the 'evil eye' or the importance of modesty can delay or prevent women from seeking hospital delivery, contributing to higher maternal mortality rates.
Why this is interesting
Why do two pregnant women facing the same medical risk make opposite choices—one rushes to a hospital, the other stays home? The answer may lie in their cultural beliefs.