Local Unorthodox Healers of Cancer in the Appalachian South
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1996
Description
This paper examines the local popular tradition of unorthodox cancer healers and treatments in the Appalachian South. An indepth case study of an unorthodox cancer healer is presented which focuses on his recruitment to the role of healer, the origin and method of his cancer treatment, and a profile of his client population. The case study is followed by a discussion of oilier unorthodox dealers of cancer in the region for the purpose of elucidating the distinction between the local and mass popular traditions of unorthodox cancer medicine. There is an historically deep and enduring tradition of unorthodox cancer treatments in the Appalachian South, and no doubt other regions of the U.S. as well, which should be considered for a better understanding of the health care alternatives available anti the health seeking behavior of individuals who use them.
Citation Information
Cavender, Anthony. 1996. Local Unorthodox Healers of Cancer in the Appalachian South. Journal of Community Health. Vol.21(5). 359-374. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01702788 ISSN: 0094-5145