Government warns of health risks from unregulated Hijama therapy
The ministry of health has warned of health risks from unregulated Hijama therapy, urging practitioners of the complementary therapy to register with the government.
10 May 2016, 9:00 AM
The ministry of health has warned of health risks from unregulated Hijama therapy, urging practitioners of the complementary therapy to register with the government.
Hijama, or wet cupping has become a popular practice in the Maldives in recent years. It involves cutting the skin and drawing blood with suction cups.
The health ministry, noting the prevalence of the practice, warned it may lead to the spread of diseases unless proper procedures are followed.
“If attention is not given to cleanliness and sterilization of the equipment used, it is highly likely that those receiving the treatment could contract other diseases. There is a risk that the cupped area could emit pus, or lead to the transmission of harmful diseases like AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C,” a statement by the ministry read.
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