Case Stories

This collection of case stories illustrates the value of cultural approaches, to understanding health and wellbeing using qualitative, as well as quantitative, research sources and methods. The central aim of the case stories is to create a body of evidence for policy makers, across the European Region, in order to demonstrate the importance of embedding a Cultural Context of Health approach within public health policy.

We would like to invite feedback on our collection of case stories. If you have any comments about how you have used the stories or how they could have been expanded, please do let us know. We also welcome contributions to our collection and if you are interested in this or would like to discuss this initiative further, please contact us.

Breathe Magic: overcoming loss of motor skills among children and young people with hemiplegia

Key Messages

Children with hemiplegia suffer from a loss of motor skills, making everyday activities difficult. Continue reading →

Normalising Breastfeeding in Ireland

Key Messages

Breastfeeding is widely considered to be the best feeding option for both baby and mother.

Breastfeeding rates in Ireland are the lowest in Europe and among the lowest in the world. Continue reading →

Hearing voices – reducing stigma

Key messages

Up to 28% of the general UK population experiences auditory hallucinations.

In Western cultural contexts, hearing voices is often associated with mental illness.

Continue reading →

Socio-cultural Dynamics of Antibacterial Resistance: Expanding Policy Horizons, Opening up New Fields of Intervention

Key messages

Antibiotics are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections and to prevent wound infections following hip replacements, caesarean sections and other surgical procedures. Continue reading →

Gender Differences in Drinking Practices in Middle Aged and Older Russians

Key Messages

There is a major gap between the life expectancy of males and females in Russia and it is likely that alcohol consumption is an important contributor. Continue reading →

Antenatal Support – Tackling Cultural Exclusion

Key Messages

In England and Wales, infant mortality rates differ significantly between ethnic groups.

The evidence suggests early antenatal consultation helps reduce avoidable infant death and poor infant (and maternal) health. Continue reading →

Understanding the culture of prescribing: perceptions of antibiotics

Key Messages

Although Welsh doctors know that antibiotics are an ineffective treatment for sore throats, they are sometimes reluctant to Continue reading →

Rickets, ‘Race’ and Public Health Strategies in the Twentieth Century

Key Messages

In Great Britain, rickets used to be a symbol of socioeconomic inequality. Continue reading →

Sexual and Reproductive Health and Well-being in Romania

Key Messages

Romania has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality in the Eastern European region. Continue reading →