Conception of Health-Disease from the Cañari Worldview

Abstract

"Introduction: The present study reflects on the Cañari cosmovision approach to health, For that purpose, it takes theoretical elements of the social determination, like harmony, symbolism, and rituality, that entails to secure alli apanakuy and sumak kawsay in a cosmic house built on the basis of temporal, agricultural, and festive Chakanas. The approach of the general to the particular, that is the substantive of the social determination, makes it possible to enter into a dialogue with this worldview of health that expresses an integral vision. Such dialogue contextualizes the reader about the elements considered important in the Cañari community to understand the accomplished work. Development: The diseases were classified within the framework of the health-disease process. Conclusions: The studied indigenous communities health depends on an integral relationship between material and spiritual elements; between the mythical, socioeconomic, and nourishing worldview, and the physical and mystical nature."