Burma: the royal and golden country
Forbes, C.
Health Visitor 62(4): 119-120
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0017-9140 PMID: 2527835 Document Number: 343661
Despite Burma being one of the potentially wealthiest nations in Asia, it is one of the poorest countries in the world. Although health care is free in theory, in reality it must be paid for or purchased on the black market. Many of the hospitals are great distances from the villages; patients end up being housed with their families and sometimes livestock as well. Since family planning is against the law, items like contraceptives can only be purchased on the black market. Burmese life is centered around folk traditions; even births are influenced by the days that they fall on. Malaria, diarrhea, and other infectious disease are the main cause of death of children under 5. UNESCO and other non- governmental agencies assist Burmese villages in setting up health programs and relief programs. Despite overwhelming poverty and disease, the Burmese people still remain friendly and generous.