An ethnographic study of sociocultural determinants and health system gaps in chronic venous disease in Calabria

Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) is a highly prevalent condition often explored through a biomedical lens, emphasizing pathophysiology and clinical management. However, less attention has been paid to the sociocultural dimensions that shape its perception, experience, and treatment. This ethnographic study investigates how social, cultural, and structural factors influence CVD outcomes in Calabria, a historically underserved region in Southern Italy. Through participant observation and in-depth interviews with patients, caregivers, and community health workers, this paper reveals patterns of delayed diagnosis, stigma, and therapeutic non-compliance tied to cultural beliefs, gender dynamics, and systemic healthcare gaps. Findings suggest the need for culturally embedded interventions and health policies that recognize the lived realities of CVD patients. This study contributes to the emerging intersection of anthropology and preventive medicine, reinforcing the importance of viewing chronic diseases within their broader sociocultural contexts.