Traditional Knowledge of Childhood Illnesses among the Sidama Nation, Clinical Presentation and Hematological Findings

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Abstract Background Sidama possesses extensive indigenous knowledge regarding infant illnesses described as “ feyancho ”. Feyancho has a widespread recognition among Sidama people, though poorly documented in scientific literature. This study aimed to document the indigenous understanding of this infantile disease and examine associated clinical and biochemical profiles in the Sidama National Regional State, Ethiopia. Methods A household-based cross-sectional study was conducted in nine districts selected using systematic random sampling method. Data was collected through household surveys (n=436), focus group discussions (FGDs), and clinical assessments. Clinical and biochemical evaluations were performed on children affected by” feyancho” disease. Result The overall prevalence of “ feyancho ” was 59.52%. Most respondents (66.51%) believed that maternal health influences the occurrence of “feyancho” disease. In the study group, liver function tests showed elevated levels of SGOT (AST), ALP, and direct bilirubin in more than half of the children. Additionally, 25% presented low glucose and elevated total bilirubin. Hematological analyses revealed significant increases in LYM (+128%), EOS (+76.92%), LYM% (+79.6%), RDW-CV (+36.23%), PDW (+35.74%), and PCT (+1015.79%). Conversely, decreases were observed in NEU (–29.05%), NEU% (–36.78%), RBC (–13.26%), HGB (–28.07%), HCT (–29.36%), MCV (–20.73%), and PLT (–25.67%). Conclusion The Sidama people’s indigenous knowledge of infantile diseases remains an integral part of local health practices. Clinical and biochemical findings suggest conditions such as microcytic anemia, inflammation, or chronic infections. Safeguarding this traditional knowledge and validating it scientifically is crucial, requiring more comprehensive research.

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