Trends in Complementary Health Approach Use Among U.S. College Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analytic Comparison, 2012–2023

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background People seek complementary health approaches (CHAs) for a variety of health reasons, and high rates of CHA use among U.S. college students have been reported. Purpose Based on a 2012 study, researchers assessed trends in college CHA use by conducting an updated systematic review of studies published between June 2011–December 2022. Methods For eight studies that met inclusion/exclusion criteria, weighted means were used to report CHA use, and changes in CHA use between two time points (2012 and 2023) were determined using Chi-square and Pearson’s r. Results Overall CHA use in the past 12 months was 69.7%, and the most commonly used CHAs were NVNM/herbal medicine (55.8%), relaxation techniques (53%), supplements (42.3%), and yoga (37%). Statistically significant (p < .01) increases were shown for NVNM/herbal medicine (+25.2%, r = 0.23), yoga (+19.3%, r = 0.19), and meditation (+10.8%, r = 0.10). Use of megavitamins significantly (p < .01) decreased by 19% (r = 0.20), compared to 2012 data. Discussion Future research on college student CHA use needs to be comprehensive and consistent. Translation to Health Education Practice Certified Health Education Specialists should study and understand trends in CHA use to educate students on the efficacy of CHAs for whole person health.