Complementary And Alternative Medicine Modalities Research Articles

How does the role of complementary and alternative medicine in general practice differ between countries? Interviews with doctors who have worked both in Germany and elsewhere in Europe

BackgroundAvailable data suggest that general practitioners (GPs) in Germany use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities more frequently than GPs in many other countries. We investigated the country differences perceived by general practitioners who have worked in Germany and in one of four other European countries with regard to the role of complementary and alternative treatments in primary care.MethodsIn this qualitative study we conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 GPs who had worked both in Germany and Italy, the Netherlands, Norway or the United Kingdom (UK; n = 3 for each of the four countries). Participants were asked how they perceived and experienced country differences regarding health system, relevance of CAM modalities, the role of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and science, and how they handle so-called indeterminate situations. For the analysis, we followed a thematic analysis approach according to Braun and Clarke with focus on themes that cover CAM.ResultsParticipants unanimously reported that they perceived CAM to be more relevant in general practice in Germany compared to the other countries. We identified four overarching themes in relation to the perceived reasons for these differences. Firstly, physicians with experiences in countries with a strong EBM and science orientation (Netherlands, Norway and the UK) considered the deeply ingrained view in national healthcare systems and GP communities that CAM modalities are not evidence-based as the main reason for the lower use of CAM by GPs. Secondly, extensive training of communication skills was cited as a reason that reduced the need for CAM in the Netherlands, Norway and the UK. Thirdly, differences in patient expectations and demands were perceived as a factor contributing to greater utilisation of CAM by German GPs compared to the other countries. Finally, country-specific reimbursement mechanisms were considered as a factor influencing the role of CAM in general practice.ConclusionsThe study results point to major differences between countries with regard to the role of CAM in GP care. Differences in basic attitudes in the discipline of general practice, patient expectations and system conditions appear to play an important role here.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine in head and neck cancer: Salutary or noxious

Head and neck cancer (HNC) presents intricate challenges in its treatment that may result in adversative local effects impacting patient's critical functions and well-being. Alternatively, patients increasingly explore several other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Though clinical trials of certain CAM modalities have shown effectiveness in managing symptoms and risk behaviours allied with HNC and its treatment, evidence also suggests a need for heed. CAM usage may lead to substantial treatment delays and adverse effects with persistent concerns regarding its efficacy, safety, and potential interactions with conventional treatments, ultimately compromising therapeutic outcomes. Addressing concerns to conventional cancer care and encouraging informed decision-making are critical in ensuring comprehensive and timely interferences for HNC patients. Besides, integrating evidence-based CAM cautiously with conventional approaches holds potential for optimizing cancer management strategies.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for People with Epilepsy: Opinions of Physicians in Oman.

Several studies have explored the opinions of healthcare workers on the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in epilepsy treatment. We sought to survey the views of non-neurologist and non-psychiatrist physicians in Oman on the use of CAM for epilepsy. We used convenience sampling to recruit physicians (except neurologists and psychiatrists) from all 11 governorates of Oman. The online questionnaire was open to physicians from 5 January 2022 to 15 February 2023. This study collected anonymous data on their demographics, discipline, work settings, geographical area, and years of practice. Additionally, participants were asked to answer questions about their perception of CAM use and its effectiveness in treating epilepsy. A total of 190 physicians participated, of whom 69.5% were men. Respondents were mostly 36 to 45 years old (51.1%). The majority (52.1%) were general practitioners, 21.1% were internists, 17.9% were pediatricians, and 8.9% were family physicians. Most participants (n = 144; 75.8%) believed that CAM may help treat patients with epilepsy (PWE). The most common therapies that participants considered helpful were meditation (46.0%), prayers (44.7%), yoga (32.6%), and exercise (31.1%). While the evidence supporting the use of CAM for the treatment of epilepsy is scarce, this survey showed that most physicians (non-neurologists and non-psychiatrists), who manage PWE in Oman, believed that some CAM modalities would help treat epilepsy. Well-designed controlled trials are needed to provide reliable evidence on the usefulness of CAM options in PWE.

Integrative Medicine Across the Pediatric Cancer Care Trajectory: A Narrative Review.

Children and adolescents with cancer, along with their parents and other informal caregivers, often report using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) during active oncology and hemato-oncology treatment. Some adopt an "alternative" approach to conventional medical care, which often entails the use of these practices without the knowledge of the treating pediatrician. In contrast, many others search for consultation provided by a pediatric integrative oncology (IO) practitioner working with the conventional medical team. IO seeks to provide evidence-based complementary medicine therapies, many of which have been shown to augment conventional supportive and palliative care, while ensuring the patient's safety. The present narrative review examines the current state of and future direction for the IO setting of care. A large body of published clinical research supports the effectiveness of leading Pediatric IO modalities, while addressing potential safety-related concerns. Despite the growing amount of clinical research supporting the beneficial effects and implementation of Pediatric IO models of care, there is still a need for further studies in order to establish clinical guidelines in the treatment of children and adolescents with cancer. Such IO-directed guidelines will need to address both the effectiveness and the safety of the CAM modalities being used in pediatric oncology and hemato-oncology settings, promoting a better understanding among pediatric healthcare professionals and helping them understand the indications for referral to the IO treatment service.

Beyond standard treatment: A qualitative descriptive study of cancer patients' perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care

Background and purposeCancer remains a leading cause of death in Australia. The number of new cancer cases diagnosed each year is expected to surpass 200,000 by 2033. This marks a significant increase from about 88,000 cases in 2000 to an estimated 165,000 cases in 2023. Despite advancements in treatment, emotional and psychological challenges in cancer care are often overlooked. This study focuses on hypnotherapy, a complementary therapy recognized for its efficacy for physical and emotional symptoms, yet underutilized in Australian cancer care. The research aims to explore patients' perceptions of hypnotherapy and identify barriers to its integration, contributing to the development of holistic, patient-centered cancer care models. Materials and methodsA qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews was conducted with 14 adult cancer patients (breast, lung, and colorectal) undergoing active treatment, selected through convenience sampling. The interviews were carried out from May 2022 to August 2023, focusing on participants' experiences and attitudes toward hypnotherapy among other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke's six-step framework was applied to the data. ResultsFive themes were developed following analysis: 1) emotional roller coaster of cancer diagnosis, 2) participants’ perspectives on hypnotherapy among other CAM modalities, 3) hypnotherapy as a psychological vs physiological support, 4) fringe benefits of hypnosis, and 5) the main hurdles: cost and lack of information. Participants expressed a diverse range of experiences and attitudes towards hypnotherapy and CAM, with a strong emphasis on the need for emotional support in cancer care. Although hypnotherapy was recognized for its potential to address both emotional and physical symptoms, its predominant use was for emotional well-being. Participants also highlighted the importance of attitudes and endorsements from healthcare providers in their decision-making process about CAM therapies. ConclusionThe study findings emphasize the need for a more integrative and patient-centered approach in cancer care that includes hypnotherapy as a non-pharmacological intervention for physical and particularly emotional support. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential value of hypnotherapy and consider patient preferences in their recommendations. In addition, addressing the identified barriers could improve the accessibility and integration of hypnotherapy into cancer care protocols in Australia.

E047 Utilization of complementary and alternative medicine in patients with rheumatological conditions at Kenyatta National Hospital

Abstract Background/Aims The utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has recently increased, especially among patients with rheumatic diseases, particularly those experiencing pain and mobility limitations. CAM use poses potential risks, such as drug interactions and adherence to conventional medicine. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CAM use and evaluate the reasons and determinants among patients with rheumatological diseases who attended the rheumatology outpatient clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Methods In this cross-sectional descriptive study, patients with a confirmed diagnosis of rheumatic disease were enrolled at the rheumatology outpatient clinic of KNH. Consecutive sampling technique was employed to select patients. Data collection utilized two validated tools: the self-administered NAFKAM International - CAM-Questionnaire (I-CAM-Q) for assessing the prevalence and primary reasons for CAM utilization and the SF-36 questionnaire to assess the quality of life. CAM use was determined as a percentage of all study participants. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire, and the results were compiled to established norms. Mean scores and standard deviations were calculated for each SF-36 subscale, and patients’ overall health-related quality of life was categorized as either good or poor based on a 50% cut-off score. To determine the association between CAM use and socio-demographic factors, as well as HRQOL, the Chi-square test was used, with statistical significance set at a p-value of < 0.05. Results A total of 151 patients, predominantly female (137), with a median age of 45 (IQR 31.5-56.5) years, participated in the study. The prevalence of CAM use was 55.6%. Among the CAM modalities, vitamins/minerals (94%), prayer for health (80.9%), and herbs/herbal products (69%) were the most frequently used. The primary motivation for CAM utilization was to enhance overall well-being, followed by its adoption as an alternative or co-medication due to the high cost of conventional medicine. Dissatisfaction with conventional medicine emerged as the least common reason. CAM use was not influenced by age, gender, marital status, or level of education but was associated with parameters indicating poorer health, as evidenced by the mental component score and physical component score of SF-36. Conclusion The study highlights a significant prevalence of CAM use among patients with rheumatic diseases, indicating a noteworthy trend in healthcare choices. This suggests that many individuals with severe conditions may seek CAM as an adjunctive approach to managing their health. Alternatively, CAM usage might interfere with adherence to conventional medication, potentially exacerbating disease severity. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in recognizing CAM usage and assessing whether it is preferred over conventional medicine, facilitating informed decisions and patient-centered care. This research contributes valuable insights into the complex landscape of healthcare choices among patients with rheumatological diseases, shedding light on the importance of holistic healthcare management. Disclosure K.M. Juma: None. G.O. Oyoo: None. E.G. Kalman: None.

Management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Qualitative Inquiry among Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practitioners in South Africa.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex reproductive endocrinopathy affecting 4-20% of females of reproductive age. PCOS and its consequent complications such as infertility, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease significantly impact clinical management. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including homeopathy, is gaining recognition in PCOS management. There remains a paucity of formal protocols for managing PCOS within homeopathy and other CAM systems. This study aimed to explore and document existing therapeutic practices in the management of PCOS from diagnosis to treatment used by practitioners within various disciplines of CAM: viz., homeopathy, ayurveda, unani tibb, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and naturopathy, in the context of their unique philosophical background. In this explorative, descriptive study, data were collected from CAM practitioners in eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, using semi-structured interviews and analysed using Tesch's and Creswell's methods for qualitative analysis. Four themes emerged from the data, namely: CAM philosophical perspectives on PCOS, contributing factors, diagnosis of PCOS, and management of PCOS. Five sub-themes emerged: clinical diagnosis of PCOS, CAM-specific characterisation of PCOS, CAM-specific treatment of PCOS, adjunctive therapies, and lifestyle interventions. Homeopathic management comprised several prescribing methods, the most common ones being miasmatic/constitutional, keynote and clinical, alongside adjunctive therapies and lifestyle interventions. Other CAM modalities adopted similar holistic approaches. This paper offers a comprehensive exploration of the perceptions, clinical investigations and management practices in PCOS by homeopaths and four other CAM modalities - ayurveda, unani tibb, TCM and naturopathy - as documented in the study. Homeopaths and other CAM practitioners employed CAM-specific therapies, along with adjunctive therapies and lifestyle interventions, adopting holistic approaches. Enhancing the quality of life through emotional counselling, stress reduction and lifestyle improvements emerged as shared objectives across modalities. Our findings underscore the need to further explore inter-disciplinary collaboration in PCOS management among registered CAM practitioners, with the potential to expand the scope of comprehensive care for PCOS patients.

Distinct experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG performance status: a qualitative phenomenological study.

Advanced cancer patients with good Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (score 0-1) are underrepresented in current qualitative reports compared with their dying counterparts. To explore the experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG. A qualitative phenomenological approach using semi-structured interview was employed. Data was analyzed using the Colaizzi's method. Purposive sample of terminal solid cancer patients on palliative care aged 18-70 years with a 0-1 ECOG score were recruited from a tertiary general hospital. Sixteen participants were interviewed. Seven themes were generated from the transcripts, including experiencing no or mild symptoms; independence in self-care, decision-making, and financial capacity; prioritization of cancer growth suppression over symptom management; financial concerns; hope for prognosis and life; reluctance to discuss death and after-death arrangements; and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and religious coping. Advanced cancer patients with good ECOG have distinct experiences and care needs from their dying counterparts. They tend to experience no or mild symptoms, demonstrate a strong sense of independence, and prioritize cancer suppression over symptom management. Financial concerns were common and impact their care-related decision-making. Though being hopeful for their prognosis and life, many are reluctant to discuss death and after-death arrangements. Many Chinese patients use herbal medicine as a CAM modality but need improved awareness of and accessibility to treatment options. Healthcare professionals and policy-makers should recognize their unique experiences and needs when tailoring care strategies and policies.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers Toward Using Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Medical and Nonmedical University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study from Saudi Arabia

The recognition of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly growing worldwide. Positive attitudes toward using CAM may reflect an evidence-based understanding and awareness of its common uses and potential abuses, facilitating its sound integration into the society for positive results. This study aimed to identify the level of knowledge, practices, and barriers associated with the use of CAM among medical and nonmedical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2023 and July 2023 involving a sample group of medical and nonmedical students from King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. A total of 341 students completed the survey. Approximately 53.4% of the participants were medical and 46.6% were nonmedical students. Herbal medicine was the most used among medical students (21%) followed by aromatherapy (12%) and chiropractic (11%), while the most used CAM among nonmedical students was spiritual healing/Quran (19%). The prevalence of good knowledge is higher in medical students compared to nonmedical students in some CAM modalities. In addition, the results show that there are no significant differences in attitudes toward CAM among medical and nonmedical students. Respondents from both groups were keen on gaining more knowledge about all the CAM modalities. It is important to utilize the data from this study for enhancing curricula in university programs and promoting education and practice related to CAM.

The Ethical Implications of Integrating Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in Chinese Psychological Practice

This paper meticulously delves into the intricate ethical implications that arise from the integration of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) into the realm of Chinese psychological practice. The surge in interest in holistic well-being has spurred the incorporation of CAM modalities within psychology. This convergence lays bare a tapestry of intricate ethical quandaries. With a meticulous and rigorous examination, this study navigates the core ethical principles, including the imperative commitments to public welfare, shielding against potential harm, and upholding individual autonomy. The exploration unearths multifaceted challenges spanning transparency, the intricacies of accountability, the nuances of informed consent, and the shadows of potential exploitation. In response to these complexities, the paper advocates for strategic measures such as fostering interprofessional collaboration, catalyzing governmental initiatives, and embracing qualitative methodologies. Inescapably, the study underscores the pressing need for a responsible and reasonable integration that ensures the delivery of comprehensive and patient-centered care while aligning with China's constantly evolving mental health landscape. By engaging rigorously with these ethical dimensions, the integration of CAM emerges as a pivotal contributor to an inclusive and all-encompassing mental health framework.

Muslim pilgrims’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding complementary and alternative medicine (CAM); a study conducted during Hajj season

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has attracted much interest, and its prevalence in both developed and developing countries has increased. During the Hajj season, millions of Muslims from many different countries travel to Makkah for the pilgrimage. In dealing with health issues during the holy season, many pilgrims prefer to self-medicate with traditional remedies instead of visiting medical practitioners, which could affect the efforts of state healthcare organizations to maintain overall public health during this mass gathering. This study aims to gauge the prevalence of CAM use during Hajj, and to assess pilgrims’ beliefs and knowledge of CAM therapies, with particular reference to products available in Makkah. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in several camps and hotels occupied by Hajj pilgrims in Makkah, during Hajj 2023. CAM modalities were used by 68.8 % of the study participants during the Hajj season. There were almost equal numbers of men (53.7 %) and women (46.3 %) participants, with 88 % of the CAM users being non-Saudi and only 12 % Saudi. The majority of the CAM users belonged to two age groups, the 31–40 year group (29.9 %) and the 41–50 year group (34.5 %). The most frequent self-practice therapies were religious prayer/rituals (30.2 %), and the most popular practitioner therapies was herbal treatments (12.3 %). The most common source of CAM-related information was family/friends (29.2 %), for improving well-being reason (25.8 %). More than half of the participants (56.8 %) strongly believed that CAM therapies have the potential to cure disease, although they were unaware of possible interactions between CAM and conventional drugs (76.7 %). More than half of the participants (57.8 %) did not disclose their CAM usage to healthcare practitioners. Half of the sample said they used CAMs during Hajj because of the common belief that therapeutic products from the holy city of Makkah, such as Zamzam water, are more effective. In conclusion, CAM therapies are commonly used by Hajj pilgrims as they are presumed to be natural and therefore safe, raising concerns about the potential risks of relying on CAM without adequate consultation with healthcare providers or awareness of potential interactions between prescription drugs and CAM treatments.

Interdisciplinary Integrative Oncology Group-Based Program: Evaluation of Long-Term Effects on Resilience and Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients With Cancer.

Cancer often causes reduced resilience, quality of life (QoL) and poorer overall well-being. To mitigate these problems, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used among patients with cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of an interdisciplinary integrative oncology group-based program (IO-GP) on the resilience and use of CAM in patients with cancer. This was a prospective, observational, single-center study. Resilience (RS-13), CAM usage (I-CAM-G), QoL (SF-12) and health-related lifestyle factor (nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption and physical exercise) data were collected for 70 patients who participated in a 10-week IO-GP between January 2019 and June 2022 due to cancer. The IO-GP is offered at the setting of a university hospital and is open to adult patients with cancer. It contains elements from mind-body medicine and positive psychology, as well as recommendations on healthy diet, exercise and CAM approaches. Patients who completed the IO-GP at least 12 months prior (1-4.5 years ago) were included in this study. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis and parametric and nonparametric tests to identify significant differences (P < .05). Resilience increased significantly ≥12 months after participation in the IO-GP (n = 44, P = .006, F = 8.274) and had a medium effect size (r = .410). The time since the IO-GP was completed ("12-24 months," "24-36 months," and ">36 months") showed no statistically significant interaction with changes in resilience (P = .226, F = 1.544). The most frequently used CAM modalities within the past 12 months were vitamins/minerals (85.7%), relaxation techniques (54.3%), herbs and plant medicine (41.1%), yoga (41.4%) and meditation (41.4%). The IO-GP was the most common source informing study participants about relaxation techniques (n = 24, 64.9%), meditation (n = 21, 72.4%) and taking vitamin D (n = 16, 40.0%). Significantly greater levels of resilience were found in those practicing meditation (P = .010, d = -.642) or visualization (P = .003, d = -.805) compared to non-practitioners. IO-GPs have the potential to empower patients with cancer to continue using CAM practices-especially from mind-body medicine-even 1 to 4.5 years after completing the program. Additionally, resilience levels increased. These findings provide notable insight into the long-term effects of integrative oncology interventions on resilience and the use of CAM, especially in patients with breast cancer.

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.

Knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of healthcare professionals towards complementary and alternative medicine: a cross-sectional survey from twin cities of Pakistan

BackgroundThe growing popularity and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) products among the general public worldwide has been well documented. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and perceptions (KAP) of Pakistani healthcare professionals (HCP) toward CAM and to document their views on integrating CAM education with the curriculum of undergraduate health science programs.MethodA cross-sectional study using simple random sampling was conducted for a duration of ten months among HCPs from Pakistan’s twin cities: Islamabad and RawalpindiThe data were collected using a self-administered and validated (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.71) questionnaire. This questionnaire consisted of five sections, namely; demographic, attitude, perception, integration and knowledge.ResultThe response rate was 91.20% (500/456). The participants included 160 physicians, 155 nurses,and 141 pharmacists. The majority of the respondents were females, 67.50%, and unmarried (60.50%).The majority of HCPs participating in this study agreed that CAM modalities may benefit conventional medicine system. Likewise, most HCPs perceived different CAM therapies aseffective treatment options. More than 50% HCPs suggested CAM elective courses in the curriculum of the health sciences program.Overall, 79.17% of the HCPs have poor knowledge of CAM. Physicians have the highest knowledge score 25.63%, followed by pharmacists 21.99%, and nurses 12.26%. Knowledge status was significantly associated with age, profession, and experience of practice (p = 0.001,0.001 & 0.019).ConclusionThis study revealed that despite the overall positive attitude of HCPs toward CAM, the score of knowledge is low. Therefore, the survey recommends evidence-based guidelines for the rationale use of CAM and updated syllabi of undergraduate health programs which will assist the future HCPs in increasing professionals’ knowledge toachieve better health outcomes for the general public.

Explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine among Chinese gynaecological patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a qualitative phenomenological study

ObjectivesTo explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by Chinese gynaecological oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy and discuss measures to address the existing gaps.DesignQualitative phenomenology. Semistructured in-depth interview. Colaizzi’s...

The prevalence and pattern of complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients in a tertiary oncology center: a cross-sectional study.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used nationally and internationally for multiple medical conditions, including different stages of cancer. It is used by the patients for multiple purposes, including to cure diseases or resolve symptoms, as patients have the misconception that natural remedies are safer than radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The aim of this research is to investigate the prevalence, pattern, and purpose of CAM use by cancer patients at Princess Noorah Oncology Center (PNOC), King Abdulaziz Medical City, in Jeddah (KAMC-JD). This was a cross-sectional study that examined 293 patients (selected through random computerized sampling) who were seen at PNOC during the study period. To be eligible for the study, participants had to be cancer patients over the age of 18 who were seen at PNOC. The authors excluded patients who had privacy requests or did not fit our inclusion criteria. Of the sample, 52.9% [95% confidence interval (CI), 47.0-58.7] used CAM. Only 5.8% of patients delayed their medical treatment to use CAM. A significantly higher proportion of females used CAM than males (61.8% vs. 40.0%, P<0.001). The most common types of CAM were Zamzam water (67.7%), Quran recitation (42.6%), water read upon Quran (41.3%), and black seed (Nigella sativa) (41.3%). The most frequently reported reasons for CAM use were to treat cancer (53.5%), increase immunity (34.2%), and religious beliefs (23.9%). Generally, 57.4% of CAM users felt improvement with CAM modalities. In conclusion, more than 50% of our sample used CAM; 5.8% of patients delayed the medical treatment to use CAM. The most common type of CAM was Zamzam water, and the most frequently reported reason for CAM use was to treat cancer. Of CAM users, 57.4% felt improvement with CAM modalities. Further studies that involve qualitative designs and include a more diverse sample are recommended in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to understand CAM utilization patterns.

Attitudes and understanding of complementary and alternative medicine in cancer care: An exploratory study of patients' perspectives in Karachi, Pakistan

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities among patients with cancer in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to December 2021. Five hundred patients with cancer were invited to participate in the study. Electronic databases, namely, Google scholar, Publons, EMBASE, PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, and ResearchGate was used for questionnaire designed. The self-administered survey included questions on demographic characteristics, education level, socio-economic conditions and information about CAM therapies, prevalence, effectiveness, and common CAM modalities. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software version 22. Results: Out of the 500 invited patients, 433 (86.6%) successfully completed and returned the questionnaires. In contrast to patients who were with younger, highly educated, professionally active, higher income, and had advanced cancer, time since diagnosis, type of treatment, cancer types and family history are significantly associated with CAM use. The results showed that 59.8% of the participants were acquainted with complementary and/or alternative medicine and considered safe owing to its natural ingredients. The prevalence of CAM usage among cancer patients was 40.9% and the most widely used CAM modality was herbal medicine (27.7%) and dietary supplements (28.8%). Patients used CAM as a complementary therapy to improve the morphological parameter (28.2%), strengthen the immune system (6.8%), and to decrease the side effects of conventional treatment (18.1%). Most of the respondents get the information regarding CAM therapy from the electronic media (43.2%) and the family members (48%) rather than healthcare personnel. Conclusions: Participants used CAM modalities along with the conventional health care practices. Further multicentre studies should be conducted to provide information regarding the usage of CAM therapies and their eventual benefits in patients with cancer.

Complementary and alternative medicine use by Bangladeshi adult patients with diabetes and hypertension: A multicenter study

Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Bangladesh is widespread, but scarce information exists about its use in treating hypertension and diabetes in adults. The study aimed to understand the distribution and determinants of CAM use among Bangladeshi adult patients with hypertension and diabetes. Methods: This multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adult patients with hypertension (n=200) and diabetes (n=200). Data were collected from two specialised diabetes and hypertension treatment centers. Interviews were used to gather socio-demographic data, while medical records were used to obtain information on hypertension and diabetes. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the most influential predictors of CAM usage. Results: Overall, 29% (n=116) of patients used CAM for diabetes and hypertension, with 37.5% (n=41) for hypertension and 37.5% (n=75) for diabetes. Older patients (aged &gt;59) were 7.5 times more likely to use CAM (OR=7.527; 95% CI: 3.224 to 17.574, p&lt;0.001) than young adults (aged &lt;35 years). The currently employed patients were less likely to be CAM users (OR=0.429; 95% CI: 0.264 to 0.697, p&lt;0.001) than the unemployed patients. It was less common for patients from nuclear families to use CAM (OR=0.178; 95% CI: 0.111 to 0.286, p&lt;0.001) than those from extended families. Patients with hypertension were less likely (OR=0.430; 95% CI: 0.275 to 0.672, p&lt;0.001) to be CAM users than patients with diabetes. Most of the CAM users were influenced by media and family members. The most common reasons for CAM use were its perceived effectiveness, fewer side effects, and low cost. Conclusions: The study observed a high prevalence of CAM users among patients with hypertension and diabetes. The most common CAM modalities were homeopathy, ayurveda and unani medicine. The findings suggest future directions for research and have practical implications for chronic disease treatment.

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 &amp; 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.

Use of CAM among cancer patients

BackgroundThe use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by patients is widespread. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the extent and details of patient CAM use in Sweden, especially in rural Sweden. The aim of this study was to estimate the extent and characteristics of CAM use among cancer patients in Region Gävleborg.MethodsA total of 631 questionnaires were distributed to which 376 responses were registered, yielding a response rate of 59.6%. Questionnaires were distributed to oncology patients at their first visit for curative treatment at the Department of Oncology, Gävle Hospital. Palliative patients were recruited at their first visit and during enrollment in palliative outpatient care in their own homes. The characteristics of the respondents were presented with standard descriptive statistics. A multivariable logistic model was fitted to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and identify potential predictors (Age, Gender, Education, Diagnosis) of CAM use post-cancer diagnosis.Results54% of all participants reported lifetime CAM use, 34% reported CAM use post-diagnosis. The most common CAM methods used after diagnosis are vitamins, health food preparations, herbal teas, prayer and dietary methods. The most common source of information reported is family and friends. Almost 70% of those who used CAM after their diagnosis stated that they did not discuss their use with healthcare professionals. Most patients reported that they would like some CAM modalities to be offered within conventional care regardless of their own CAM use.ConclusionsThe use of CAM is common among patients with cancer in the region of Gävleborg, and previous studies show a similar use in Sweden in general. Based on the widespread use of CAM and patient interest in discussing CAM use with healthcare professionals, greater attention and focus should be placed on creating a basis for this dialogue. If we, as healthcare professionals, are to emphasise our commitment to providing patient-centred care, we must acknowledge that patients use CAM and are seeking a dialogue about CAM use in their care.