Complementary And Alternative Medicine Practices Research Articles

Knowledge, perception, attitude, and practice of complementary and alternative medicine by health care workers in Garki hospital Abuja, Nigeria

BackgroundHealthcare workers are currently making efforts to offer services that cater to the holistic care needs of their patients. Previous studies have shown that some healthcare workers encounter challenges when advising patients about Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), even though its use is widespread. Many health care workers may not have received formal education or training in CAM and consequently are unable to address their patients’ questions about it. This study explored the knowledge, perception, attitude and practice of CAM by healthcare workers in Garki Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria.MethodsThis was an institution-based cross-sectional study, design and a convergent parallel, mixed methods design was used for data collection. Five (5) healthcare workers were purposively selected as participants for the key informant interviews, while two hundred and fifty (250) selected using a simple random sampling method completed the questionnaire. The data collection instruments used were a key informant interview guide and a 35-item self-administered questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed with a 4-item scale with a maximum score of 8. Perceptions and attitudes were assessed using Likert scales with a maximum score of 45 and 20, respectively. Practice was assessed with a 6-item scale with a maximum score of 18. Qualitative data was analysed using framework analysis. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Data acquired from both methods were integrated to form the findings.ResultsThe average age of respondents for the quantitative study was 34.0 ± 7.8 years, and they were predominantly females (61.2%) with one to ten years of work experience (68.8%). The mean knowledge, perception and attitude scores were 1.94 ± 1.39, 13.08 ± 2.34 and 32.68 ± 6.28, respectively. Multiple linear regression result showed that knowledge (t = 2.025, p = 0.044) and attitude (t = 5.961, p = 0.000) had statistically significant effects on the practice of CAM. Qualitative data revealed that the majority of the participants perceive CAM favourably, provided it is properly introduced into mainstream medicine with evidence of safety and research to prove its efficacy.ConclusionThe study has shown the gaps in knowledge and the practices of CAM by conventional medical practitioners. This has implications for their ability to counsel and refer patients who may require CAM therapies. Policy, research and programmatic initiatives that seek to enhance their knowledge of CAM, and improve collaboration with CAM practitioners are recommended.

Prevalence of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use and Its Associated Factors among Iranian Diabetic Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use and its associated factors among diabetic patients in Fasa, a city in southern Iran. MethodsData were collected from diabetic patients who visited the endocrinology clinics at Fasa University of Medical Sciences. A structured questionnaire was administered to gather information on CAM use, including the types of CAM modalities used, and reasons for use. The patient's demographic and clinical characteristics, such as age, gender, duration of diabetes, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and quality of life (QoL) were also recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of CAM use, while logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with CAM use. ResultsA total of 376 diabetic patients participated in the study, with more than 89% reporting CAM use within the past year. Herbal preparations were the most commonly used type of CAM, with a prevalence rate of 99.4%. Factors associated with CAM use included patients’ psychological health, attitude towards the safety of CAM, belief in the synergistic effects of combining routine medications with CAM, and previous positive experiences with CAM. ConclusionThe high prevalence of CAM use highlights the importance of considering it in diabetes management and the need for healthcare professionals’ engagement in open discussions with patients about their CAM practices. Understanding the factors influencing CAM use can inform healthcare providers and policymakers in developing appropriate strategies for integrating CAM approaches into conventional diabetes care.

Healthcare professionals' perception and practice of complementary and alternative medicine in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia.

Over the last few decades, use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has grown in popularity, changing health professionals' knowledge and attitude toward CAM, and the treatment recommended by them. The aim of the study was to evaluate the perception and practice of CAM among healthcare professionals. A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare providers selected by multistage random sampling technique in two governmental hospitals and ten primary healthcare centers in two governorates in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. A web-based, self-administered questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms. A total of 350 physicians responded to the survey. Good basic knowledge about CAM was reported by 48.6% of the respondents; a positive attitude was adopted by 53%; and CAM was actively practiced by 9.7%. Being a physician > 40 years and consultant affiliation were significantly associated with higher knowledge level about CAM (p = 0.006 and 0.03, respectively), as well as having a proactive practice (p = 0.007 and 0.04, respectively). Practicing CAM was prevalent among non-Saudi and married physicians (p = 0.02 for both). Knowledge about CAM and its practice were strongly correlated (p = 0.007). The most frequent constraints facing CAM practice were lack of knowledge and training on CAM (81.4%) and lack of studies supporting CAM (74.3%). The practices of health professionals in Qassim region need to be improved despite their expertise and favourable perception of CAM. Educational interventions could play greater roles in providing evidence-based CAM knowledge and enhancing training for physicians.

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ON COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE (CAM) ASSOCIATED WITH COVID-19

People are more likely to seek information on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for self-treatment to reduce COVID-19 symptoms or for prevention. The present study aims to assess the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of CAM- associated with COVID-19 among adults in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 503 respondents using an online questionnaire. The data was analysed using SPSS version 20 and descriptive statistics were applied. A Chi-squared test was used to determine the association between KAP status and socio-demographic factors. The findings indicated that the majority of respondents had moderate knowledge score (60%) and practice (55.9%), but a high attitude (80%) towards CAM related to COVID-19. There is a significant association between age, ethnicity, employment status and knowledge level on CAM (p < 0.05) and also between educational level and attitude level on CAM associated with COVID-19 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, there is a significant association between practice level and age, race, educational level, and employment status on CAM associated with COVID-19. The present findings indicated that 73.4% of the respondents used CAM in the past 6 months to reduce or prevent symptoms of COVID-19, with most of them (51.3%) taking more than two types. In conclusion, adults in Malaysia have moderate knowledge and practice, but a high attitude towards CAM associated with COVID-19. We also postulate that respondents are more open to evidence regarding the CAM associated with COVID-19 and ready to adopt the modalities as part of integrated medicine.

Cancer patients’ attitudes towards holistic complementary and alternative medicine in the management of sleep problems

Introduction and aim. Sleep problems are frequently experienced in cancer patients and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is solve the problem. However, patients’ attitudes towards this practice are crucial. This study was purpose to investigate the attitudes of cancer patients towards CAM practices in the management of sleep problems. Material and methods. This cross-sectional. and descriptive study was conducted between February-June 2020, on 140 cancer patients in oncology/haematology clinics, three different hospitals in Istanbul. Data were collected by using the Information Form, “Richard Campbell Sleep Questionnaire and The Attitudes towards Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine scale”. Results. It was found that the patients had problems with sleep in general 42.74±21.31, mostly in the aspect of the quality of sleep 36.28±26.1. It was determined that stage IV cancer, education and income level of patients affect sleep problems. While female holistic health attitudes were more negative and, their attitudes towards CAM were positive. It was found in the analysis of variance that was performed to determine the difference between the mean scores towards sleep problems of patients in different stages (F=3.062; p<0.05). Conclusion. It was found that cancer patients usually had sleep problems, and their attitudes towards CAM practices were positive.

Perception, attitudes, knowledge of using complementary and alternative medicine for cancer patients among healthcare professionals: A mixed-methods systematic review.

With the rapid increase in the prevalence of cancer worldwide, the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has increased among cancer patients. This review aimed to understand the perception, attitudes, and knowledge of healthcare professionals toward using CAM for cancer patients. A mixed-methods systematic review was undertaken in four databases. Inclusion criteria were primary studies reporting perception, attitudes, and knowledge of healthcare professionals for using CAM for cancer patients were eligible. A mixed-methods convergent synthesis was carried out, and the findings were subjected to a GRADE-CERQual assessment of confidence. Forty-two studies were chosen. The majority of the studies were quantitative and had less than 100 participants. Most publications were from European countries, and oncology was the highest among the specialties. The review found the following themes: feasibility of having negative adverse effects, low expectations of using CAM among HCPs, potential positive effects of using CAM, specific CAM training may be helpful, no concrete regulations to promote CAM practice, and poor physician-patient communication. Nurses had more positive views than other professions; oncologists were concerned regarding herb-drug interactions; integration of CAM into the healthcare system was favorable; HCPs felt the need to participate in specific CAM training; and HCPs agreed that CAM education should be provided more regularly. Future studies should explore the studies views of cancer patients and details of in-depth evidence of CAM in oncology settings.

How are CAM Practices known, Perceived, and Used by People: Narrative Review of the Literacy, Attitude and Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Adults

Background: Patients throughout the world frequently use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), especially to treat chronic or untreatable diseases. Since the standards for many chronic illnesses have shifted dramatically, researches have shown that many healthcare providers include integrative and holistic approach in their treatment programs. Therefore, this study evaluates people's literacy, attitudes, and usage of CAM modalities in the current setting. Methods: The thorough narrative review presented is carried out utilizing six computerized databases: Taylor & Francis Online, Research Gate, Frontiers, ScienceDirect, BioMed Central, and PubMed. The key word used for the search was Complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). The results were collected and subjected to content analysis. Results: The current data show that people who are employed, younger, and female likely to be more knowledgeable, have better attitudes, and use CAM frequently. Friends and family are the most frequent sources of knowledge about CAM. Conclusion: Further study is needed in this area due to the lack of studies that address CAM literacy and attitudes.

Do Medical Sciences Students Have the Proper Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice, Regarding the Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Iran?

The increasing use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has changed expectations of healthcare professionals concerning the knowledge, attitude, and practice of CAM. The present study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of students of Arak University of Medical Sciences (Iran) in 2020 concerning CAM. The present descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 226 medical sciences students using targeted quota sampling. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire based on valid scientific articles and literature. The questionnaire was comprised of 92 items and assessed students' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding CAM. The study participants' mean CAM knowledge and attitude scores were 14.12±6.1 and 58.7±29.28, respectively. The primary information sources included mass media, the internet, and friends. Most participants (63.4%) were willing to use CAM methods. The most common CAM was herbal therapy (29.1%), and the most common reason for using, was gastrointestinal problems (39.2%). The participants indicated moderate knowledge and poor attitude regarding CAM. Thus, considering the extensive application of CAM methods among the participants and their insufficient knowledge and inappropriate attitude, that is recommended to include CAM methods be included besides the conventional medicine, in the academic curriculum of students of medical sciences.

Prevalence of Complementary and Alternate Medicine Use among People with Diabetes in Kerala, India

Abstract Introduction: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among individuals with diabetes has seen a significant surge. Estimates show that 80% of people in developing countries still prefer CAM for the treatment of health conditions. CAM encompasses various medical practices outside mainstream medicine and is increasingly employed for the reasons such as enhancing control over treatment, adopting a holistic health approach, and managing conditions alongside conventional medicine. CAM is widely embraced, due to cultural factors and perceived benefits, driving its popularity. Despite varying opinions on the impact of CAM on glycemic control, its substantial use prompts the need for a focused study. Objective: The present study explores the utilization of CAM in people with diabetes and examines potential associations with various factors that could influence CAM use. Methods: Between October 2022 and June 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 335 people with type 2 diabetes at our center using a validated structured questionnaire to explore their utilization of CAM. Results: Among the study participants, 40.7% used CAM to treat diabetes. Among them, 40.6% of subjects used CAM as complementary to modern medicine and 59.4% used CAM as an alternative to modern medicine. 65.2% of people used Ayurveda, followed by homeopathic medicines (16.3%), yoga (5.2%), naturopathy (3%), massage therapy (1.5%), and ladoo therapy (0.7%). Some of the participants had used multiple types of CAM for their diabetes treatment. 1.5% of participants used homeopathy and Ayurveda decoction. 0.7% of CAM users used Ayurveda + naturopathy, a combination of Ayurveda + Unani, and the combination of Ayurveda + protein supplements. Other therapies (traditional medicine) were found to be used by 1.5% of CAM users. Among the CAM users, 73.5% chose CAM for the treatment of diabetes, while for 14.4%, it was recommended by family and friends. It was found that 83.7% of subjects discontinued CAM use, while a minuscule share of 16.3% continued with CAM. Among those discontinued, 43.4% did not find CAM to be effective, whereas 44.3% had other reasons for discontinuing CAM. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for increased awareness and education regarding CAM use and its potential hazards. Health-care providers should consider discussing CAM use with their patients and encourage them to report its use to ensure comprehensive and safe medical care. Proper CAM practice and management are important for people with diabetes.

Asian-Origin Complementary and Alternative Medicine Perceptions Among Undergraduate Medical Students: A Cross Sectional Study

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an important feature of patient medical history. This study sought to investigate the perceptions of medical students at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harlem, New York (TouroCOM-NY) regarding Asian-origin CAM practices. An anonymous survey was distributed to first and second year TouroCOM-NY medical students, asking about their familiarity with, and general attitude towards, five categories of Asian-origin CAM (acupuncture, reiki, tai chi, Ayurveda, and use of non-mineral/vitamin substances) 107 students responded from the first-and second-year class at TouroCOM-NY in 2018, with an 84% response rate. Demographics were equally distributed between genders and were predominantly of Asian or Caucasian origin (mirroring that of the institution). 59% indicated no knowledge of 2 or more of the CAM practices listed; 41% indicated no knowledge of 3 or more. Only 20% indicated practice of at least one of the listed CAM and noted strong familiarity. This survey demonstrated significant knowledge gaps and attitudes for Asian-origin CAM practices that can be addressed by curriculum change in undergraduate medical education.

Complementary Medicine Practice and Use of Dietary Supplements in Pediatric Cancer Patients in Croatia.

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has become a customary practice among pediatric cancer patients worldwide. The frequency of its use by pediatric cancer patients in Croatia has not been previously determined. Methodology:In order to establish the frequency and detect factors affecting the use of CAM, a single-center, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Children's Hospital Zagreb during a two-year period. The patients' parents and caregivers were offered an anonymous, multi-item questionnaire that collected socio-economic and clinical data, as well as details on CAM and dietary supplement practice. Results:Almost half of the participants reported CAM and more than two-thirds reported dietary supplement consumption, predominantly in the intensive phase of the treatment. Factors regarding children or parents had no effect on CAM and supplement utilization. Herbal medicine, vitamins, and minerals were among the most commonly used items. Every 10th child experienced at least one adverse event during CAM and supplement use. Awareness of the CAM and dietary supplement application in pediatric oncology patients needs to be raised due to the potential interactions with conventional treatment modalities. For this reason, it is extremely important to inform parents and caregivers of pediatric oncology patients about the use of CAM and dietary supplements to predict and mitigate the occurrence and intensity of the side effects. In the majority of our cases, the patient'sguardians informed the healthcare professionals about the CAM and supplement implementation in their children, therefore, they were offered additional information about the possible negative impact of CAM and supplement use on standard medical care in a timely manner.

The relationship between individuals' use of complementary and alternative medicine during the pandemic in Turkey and their attitudes towards perceived COVID-19 risk.

IntroductionThe perceived COVID-19 risk may lead to the use of various complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities to reduce the potential risks of this disease. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between individuals' use of complementary and alternative medicine during the pandemic in Turkey and their attitudes towards perceived COVID-19 risk.MethodsThe study was conducted in Turkey between November 2021 and March 2022 and 1003 individuals voluntarily participated. The Personal Information Form, Attitude Towards Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Scale (HCAMS), and Perceived COVID-19 Risk Scale (PCRS) were used for data collection. To evaluate the data descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and Cronbach's alpha reliability analysis were used.ResultsIn the study, 54.2% of the individuals were found to use CAM during the pandemic, and 56.2% believed that CAM practices were useful in preventing or recovering from COVID-19. It was revealed that 53.8% of the individuals drank herbal tea, 55.2% used religious and spiritual healing to manage, 6.6% used massage, and 10.1% applied aromatherapy. The mean total score of the HCAMS was 28.29 ± 4.99, and the mean total score of the perceived COVID-19 risk scale was 27.78 ± 6.35. A statistically significant positive correlation was identified between the CAM subscale and the emotional risk subscale (p < 0.05).ConclusionIndividuals had a positive attitude towards using CAM during the pandemic period, the risk perception of COVID-19 was high and CAM methods were widely used.The literature should be supported by increasing the current and scientific studies in which CAM methods are questioned and their benefits are investigated during epidemic periods.

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND BEHAVIORS RELATED TO COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE PRACTICES IN PHYSIOTHERAPY AND REHABILITATION STUDENTS

Purpose: There are studies in the literature evaluating students’ attitudes toward and knowledge of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, with most of this research focusing on medical, pharmacy, nursing and psychology students; however, few studies have been conducted with physiotherapy and rehabilitation (PTR) students. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to CAM among students of PTR.&#x0D; &#x0D; Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2018 to March 2019. A self-administered questionnaire form developed to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding CAM practices among students of PTR. The questionnaire form included eighteen items that was sent via email to the participants. &#x0D; &#x0D; Results: A total of 504 participants were included in this study. Their mean age was 21.66±2.50 years, 69.84% was female and 30.16% was male. Most participants (76.99%) thought that various CAM practices could be beneficial adjuncts to modern medicine. The most used sources of CAM practices was reported as online resources (64.68%). Moreover, the most well-known CAM practice among the students was massage (82.90%).&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusions and Suggestions: Majority of PTR students had a positive opinion about CAM practices. Incorporating evidence-based CAM practices with high levels of efficacy into the curricula can reliably increase physiotherapists’ knowledge about CAM practices.

A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use among Patients with Chronic Diseases (CDs) in Qassim, Saudi Arabia.

This study aims to investigate CAM use among CD patients from Qassim, Saudi Arabia and to compare CAM practice with different demographic and disease characteristics of the participants. A cross-sectional study was conducted among CD patients. During the three-months of data collection period, a total of 377 patients were approached and 208 patients participated in the study, giving a response rate of 55.17%. A p value of <0.05 was considered as significant. Among the study population, 94 (45.2%) patients were CAM users. Diabetes mellitus patients were the majority (48 (51.06%)) followed by hypertensive patients (34 (36.17%)). Spiritual therapies were the most common CAM followed by herbal products. Among CAM users, 41 (19.7%) patients reported disclosing CAM use to their health care providers. Among all the sociodemographic variables, gender (p = 0.029), marital status (p = 0.034) and education level (p = 0.047) were significantly associated with CAM use. In conclusion, the use of CAM among CD patients was relatively high in Qassim. Patients reported using CAM without disclosing to their health care providers which is a major health risk. It is critical to counsel CD patients regarding rational and informed CAM use in order to prevent harmful and unwanted effects.

Investigating The Relationship Between Midwifery Students’ View on Traditional/Complementary Medicine and Health Perception: A Descriptive Study

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the view of midwifery students on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices and their health perception.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the midwifery department of the Faculty of Health Sciences of a university in the Black Sea Region between October 4th and November 22nd, 2021 (n=304). Descriptive information form, Complementary, Alternative and Conventional Medicine Attitude Scale (CACMAS), and Health Perception Scale were used to collect the data. SPSS 23.0 statistical program was used for conducting data analysis and the data were presented using mean, standard deviation, number, and percentage values. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between the variables.&#x0D; Results: A total of 304 female students participated in this study with a mean age of 20.98 ± 2.18 years. Among them, 68.4% of the students had a family income below the minimum wage, 77.6% had a nuclear family, and 50.3% lived in the city center. Cupping (blood letting 83.8%) was the most frequent CAM practice, and acupuncture (55.9%) was the most common practice for women’s health. Mean score of the students was 111.5 ± 19.1 of 189 points on the CACMAS and 52.7 ± 7.08 points on the Health Perception Scale. No significant correlation was found between the scores of the CACMAS and Health Perception Scale (p &gt; 0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: Students’ views on traditional complementary medicine and health perceptions were found to be high. It is necessary to increase the awareness of students on these topics.

Shifting perceptions of alternative therapies in cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the Complementary and Alternative Medicine Exposure in Oncology (CAMEO) Study.

e24130 Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use has been associated with worse survival outcomes in cancer patients compared to standard of care therapies. CAM has received a significant increase in public awareness and interest in the COVID-19 pandemic era. We sought to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected CAM use and perceptions in cancer patients. Methods: Data was collected from adult cancer patients prospectively enrolled on a cross-sectional survey conducted at an NCI-designated cancer center and a comprehensive cancer center between 2020 and 2021. The survey included questions assessing changes in patient attitude towards CAM and likelihood of using CAM, both relative to prior to COVID-19. Analyzed CAM users included those taking vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements, alternative medicines and special diets, and excluded mind-body practices as the focus of this analysis was on enteral and parenteral CAM therapies. Differences in the impact of COVID-19 on CAM use beliefs and practices between CAM users and non-users were analyzed with χ2 and two-sample t-tests. Results: Out of 749 respondents, 578 (77%) used any CAM and 470 (63%) used enteral or parenteral CAM. Results shown in table. Compared to prior to COVID-19, CAM users were more likely to view CAM more favorably (12% vs 5%, p &lt; 0.01), while non-users were more likely to have an unchanged opinion (90% vs 84%, p = 0.03). Females had higher rates of viewing CAM more favorably than males (80% vs 58%, p = 0.04). Patients who viewed CAM more favorably had higher rates of self-reported incurable cancer (36% vs 11%, p = 0.04), declining recommended hormone therapy (22% vs 0%, p &lt; 0.01), and higher trust of social media (19% vs 0%, p = 0.02) and websites (24% vs 0%, p &lt; 0.01). Since the start of COVID-19, CAM users were more likely to report increased likelihood of using CAM (12% vs 6%, p = 0.01). Patients who were more likely to use CAM had higher rates of declining recommended chemotherapy (12% vs 0%, p = 0.02), and higher trust of social media (15% vs 2%, p = 0.01) and websites (28% vs 7%, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, attitudes on CAM use in oncology patients have become increasingly polarizing. Patients with favorable attitudes toward CAM were likely to decline recommended standard of care therapy and more like to use CAM since COVID-19. This data helps characterize shifting attitudes toward CAM and may help guide shared decision-making between physician and patient.[Table: see text]

Knowledge and experiences of complementary and alternative medical practices among patients presenting to an orthopedic clinic: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices and the frequency of CAM use and treatment among patients who presented to an orthopedic outpatient clinic. Patients who presented to the orthopedics outpatient clinic of Dr. Abdurrahman Yurtaslan Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital between February 1 and April 1, 2020, were invited to participate in this study. A questionnaire containing 11 questions about 14 different CAM approaches, designed to determine patients’ knowledge of and attitudes toward each of these practices, was administered by the responsible physician through face-to-face interviews. A total of 359 patients were included in the study, the mean age was 49.0 ± 16.1 years and 240 (66.9%) were women. Of the 455 individuals who were considered eligible for the study, 96 refused to participate. The majority of the participants (78.8%) stated that they knew of at least one CAM approach. The most common sources of information were families or friends (54.1%). Of the participants, 30.6% had previously received at least one CAM treatment. About half of the participants (52.6%) stated that they would consider using the methods that they had heard of. The three most commonly known and applied methods were cupping, leech therapy, and acupuncture, respectively. Only 36.4% of the treatments were applied by health professionals. Almost all patients presenting to the orthopedics outpatient clinic had some knowledge of CAM approaches and more than half of them stated that they received such treatments. Health professionals should be aware that society is interested in these practices, regardless of professional support or opposition. All patients presenting to outpatient clinics should be asked about their usage of CAM methods, and the potential interactions of patients’ treatments with CAM practices should be considered.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Utilization among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinics in Tongaren Sub-County, Kenya: a Cross-sectional Survey

Background: In Kenya, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) has been used in almost every culture to manage intolerable symptoms of pregnancy since ancient times. However, studies in Kenya have focused on herbal medicine which is just one of CAM practices. In rural settings (such Tongaren Sub-County), no studies have ever evaluated the prevalence and determinants of CAM use during pregnancy including the common CAM modalities used, and so there is need to bridge these knowledge gaps. Purpose: This study aimed at determining the prevalence of CAM utilization and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics in Tongaren Sub-County, Bungoma County. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed in collecting data from 340 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Tongaren, Kenya. Quantitative data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires. Chi-square test was used to establish the associations between socio-demographic variables and CAM usage, and multiple logistic regressions were used to examine the relative effects of the various aspects of the variables which were significantly associated with CAM usage. Results: Among the 340 participants, 50.7% indicated using CAM modalities during pregnancy, indicating that CAM use prevalence in Tongaren is about 50%. 55.80% of CAM users concomitantly use CAM and conventional medicine. The high CAM use prevalence among participants was motivated by the preference of CAM over conventional medicine for certain illnesses (31.4%) and the perceived lack of response to conventional medicine (20.1%). It was noted that marital status, educational attainment of the spouse, employment status, occupation type, and household monthly income level are the major determinants of CAM usage. From the logistic regression analysis, the variables positively associated with CAM use among pregnant women were married status (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.341, p = 0.008), having a spouse with informal education (OR = 5.371, p &lt; 0.001), self-employed status (OR = 0.415, p = 0.028), farming occupation (OR = 2.777, p = 0.206), and household monthly income higher than 35,000 Kshs (OR = 0.093, p = 0.012). Conclusions: Due to the widespread trust in the safety and efficacy of CAM, the utilization of CAM during pregnancy is common among women in Tongaren Sub-County, which is a rural setting, and therefore CAM can be regarded as the backbone of rural health care in Kenya.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practices in Pediatric Oncology and the Role of the Pediatric Nurse

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is a widely used treatment method worldwide. In recent years, the number of studies on CAM in pediatric patients has increased. Children with cancer are one of the patient groups in which CAM is most frequently applied. The most common uses of CAM are to cure cancer, strengthen the immune system, promote general well-being, and counteract the negative effects of conventional therapy. Chiropractic, homeopathy, naturopathy, acupuncture, prayer, exercise, and massage are the most commonly used CAM practices. It has been determined that most of these applications are used by families without the knowledge of health personnel. In the literature, it has been stated that besides its positive effects, it can cause some negative interactions. Therefore, care should be taken about the CAM method to be used. Pediatric nurses need to raise awareness about the use of CAM. It should be decided together with the parents when planning the care of the children. Further research on its use and effects in children with cancer is recommended.

Complementary and alternative medicine use in the prevention of COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey in Kerala, India

Background: Globally, there is evidence of increased Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use during epidemics, and pandemics. Recent studies have shown that there is an increased use of CAM during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of the study was to investigate the pattern of CAM practice in the prevention of COVID-19 pandemic among adults in Kerala state, India.Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in the first week of June 2021 among adults residing in Kerala state. The study used a pre-tested google form to collect the data. A total of 548 individuals aged 18-84 years answered an online questionnaire for the present study.Results: A higher proportion (52.4%) of participants were aged &lt;30 years, 30.8% were males, 55.3% rural residents, 26.6% health care professionals, and 51.1% had a regular income. CAM use prevalence was 59.3% (95% CI: 55.1 to 63.3). Social media (46.9%) was the most frequently reported source of CAM. The age-adjusted analysis results showed that CAM use was higher among health professionals (OR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.41-3.27), those who did not believe that vaccine could prevent coronavirus (OR: 1.91 CI: 1.08-3.39), and those who were having no regular income (OR: 1.56, CI: 1.04-2.34), compared to their counterparts.Conclusions: Close to 60% of CAM use in this population is a public health concern since the efficacy of CAM use for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 is not known. The CAM users will be under a sense of false protection, which is likely to negate vaccination and seeking proper treatment for COVID -19 in Kerala.