The need for evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) information in Malaysian pharmacy curricula based on pharmacy students’ attitudes and perceptions towards CAM

Abstract

ObjectivesPharmacists are often sought as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) information providers, and therefore they should have sufficient familiarity to provide evidence-based advice to CAM users. Attitudes and perceptions towards CAM by future pharmacists could reflect the current CAM content in pharmacy curricula. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the attitudes and perceptions towards CAM among undergraduate pharmacy students enrolled at a Malaysian university. MethodsA survey instrument to obtain data on the self-use of CAM, self-perceived knowledge on CAM, likelihood to suggest CAM, attitudes towards CAM, barriers to using CAM and preferred CAM information sources was administered to the third- and fourth-year pharmacy students. ResultsA total of 226 third- and fourth-year pharmacy students participated in the study. The students’ attitudes towards CAM were positive (CHBQ score of 48.58 ± 4.66). Knowledge related to praying, vitamins, and massage was perceived the highest, and they were comfortable in using and recommending these modalities. A lack of evidence was perceived as the main barrier to using CAM. The most preferred sources of CAM information by the respondents were CAM websites and the internet. ConclusionDespite exhibiting positive attitudes towards CAM, Malaysian pharmacy students were uncomfortable with modalities that are not tested in scientific methods, perceived lack of evidence as a barrier to using CAM, and regarded formal education as less effectual in providing CAM information. More CAM education should be incorporated in current pharmacy curricula to guide Malaysian pharmacy students in future practice.