Religious belief as determinant of animal derived medications in health care: how much is fairly good?

Abstract : Various social, cultural, and ethnic factors can play a role even in the use and availability of medical resources; religious belief, although less reported, is one such strong factor. Not much scientific literature is available regarding the use of porcine and bovine-derived medications and medical devices for patients practicing Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism. Consideration and knowledge of these issues are necessary to facilitate successful communication with a diverse patient population and respect her religious convictions. The anesthesiologist may also have to face this situation, albeit rarely. To play safely, one needs to have a sound knowledge about the origin of the medications intended to be used and adequate interview with the patient or his attendants to avoid any untoward event. This editorial compliments a case report being published in this issue on a similar topi