Complementary Medicine Usage Research Articles

Natural Products and Traditional Medicine: Investigating the Role of Natural Products and Traditional Medicine in Modern Pharmacology

Natural products and Traditional medicines have been in the use for effective management of diseases and care of human suffering for the last thousands of years and are depicted to contain a vast database of Bioactive molecules of immense therapeutic significance. The following paper’s purpose is to reflect on these practice in arts of pharmacology with regards to their history, origin, operation, and challenges in the modern world. These are plant compounds, animal, and minerals and how they have been used in former time and even in this 21st century. Modern trends and novel approaches suggest that new technologies in the genomics, proteomics and metabolomics will change the direction of the natural products research emphasizing molecular targeting as well as the individual approach towards patient treatment. It also talks about the problems of standardization and quality of the work done; therefore there is a great emphasis on the clinical trial they also go further to address rules that govern the application of such technologies. Secondly, the expansion in the usage of complementary medicine and integrative approach with natural substances in treating diseases, as well as attempts to educate doctors and other healthcare practitioners on the merits of traditional medicine. Hence, the focus of future prospects continues to be laid on advanced technologies and the role of global multilateralism in progress and regulation. The author has demonstrated a lot more about modern pharmacology within this review and is making a call for assimilation of the modern discovery with native knowledge for the benefit of mankind.

Complementary medicine in patients with head and neck cancer

ObjectivesLiterature shows that up to 40 % of cancer patients use complementary medicine treatments. Most patients do not communicate the usage with their practitioner. There are no studies investigating the prevalence and extent of complementary medicine in head and neck cancer in Germany. Material and methodsPatients undergoing tumor aftercare in our department answered a questionnaire, that investigates subsets of demographic data, health behavior, cancerogenesis and complementary medicine. Data was evaluated in total and relative numbers. Also, Chi-squared test and Phi coefficient were performed to evaluate significant correlations. ResultsA total of 102 patients could be included in this study. In the analyzed collective 30 % of patients were interested in complementary medicine. Of those, 71 % have experienced complementary medicine treatments. There was a wide variety of modalities being used. None of the patients has talked with the doctors at tumor aftercare about this usage. Correlation of data showed that gender influenced i.a. health behavior and the usage of complementary medicine before cancer. ConclusionInvestigation revealed that a relevant number of head and neck cancer patients used complementary treatments, but no one talked about it during tumor aftercare. As a “blind spot” in anamnesis and diagnostic, evaluation of complementary medicine before tumor treatment and in aftercare are necessary to improve therapeutic outcome and to prevent potential negative influences like medication interactions.

Determinants of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Usage Among Ophthalmic Patients of Selected Hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria

Background: Traditional and complementary medicine has been practiced since time immemorial, with perceived social, cultural, economic, and historical influences on its use. This practice has been viewed with mixed feelings by healthcare professionals as most have reservations about such products, their safety, quality, and effectiveness. Considering the value that people place on their eyes, they do not mind using any product for maintaining good eye health and treatment of eye diseases. Aim: The objective of this study was to appraise the determinants of Traditional and complementary medicine usage among ophthalmic patients in selected hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two selected hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. Four hundred and forty respondents were purposively sampled, and data was collected by using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 computer software. Results: All the respondents use spiritual therapy, followed by herbs or herbal extracts (69.3%). Urine or animal waste (5.5%) is the least used Traditional and complementary medicine. The respondents use Traditional and complementary medicine because of its affordability (76.6%), availability (75.7%), accessibility (73%), and lack of trust in orthodox medicine (15%). There was a significant relationship between the sociodemographic variables (gender, age, religion, level of education, occupation, and marital status) and the choice of Traditional and complementary medicine used by the residents in the study area (p < 0.005). Conclusion: The study concluded that the Ophthalmic patients in the study area still use Traditional and Complementary medicine. The most practiced traditional and complementary medicine is spiritual therapy, irrespective of religion, gender, and age. Healthcare workers must recognize the pattern of Traditional and Complementary usage among their patients, explore what their patients are using, why they are using it, and be willing to guide them appropriately to promote their eye health.

Cross-sectional survey and Bayesian network model analysis of traditional Chinese medicine in Austria: investigating public awareness, usage determinants and perception of scientific support

ObjectivesDespite the paucity of evidence verifying its efficacy and safety, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is expanding in popularity and political support. Decisions to include TCM diagnoses in the International Classification...

Complementary medicine usage in surgery: a cross-sectional survey in Germany

BackgroundComplementary medicine (CM) is frequently used by patients, but little is known about the usage of CM in surgical patients. The study aimed to elucidate the relevance of CM in surgery.MethodsThis cross-sectional, multi-center survey utilized a paper-based questionnaire consisting of 21 questions to capture CM usage and interest as well as CM communication in visceral and thoracic surgical patients being hospitalized at the corresponding departments of surgery at the University Medical Centers in Freiburg, Heidelberg und Ulm, Germany.ResultsOverall, 151 patients consented to the survey. On average, current CM usage was stated by 44% of patients. Most frequently used CM approaches were physical exercise (63%), nutritional supplements (59%) and herbal medicine (56%). Strong interest in CM counselling was stated by 51% of patients. Almost 80% of patients wanted to be treated in a holistic manner and desired for reliable information about CM as well as CM informed physicians. Only 12% of patients communicated CM usage and interest with their attending physician. Review of literature revealed similar results showing an overall CM usage of 43%, preferring nutritional supplements and herbal medicine.ConclusionThe results of our cross-sectional study indicate a high percentage of CM users and a strong interest in CM among surgical patients. Indeed, the current communication about CM between patients and surgeons is poor. With respect to safety and quality reasons, but also to pay attention to patients’ demands, physicians should be aware of patients’ CM usage in surgery.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trial register (DRKS00015445).

Menopause symptoms in women and its relation with using complementary and alternative medicines: A survey in southeast Iran.

BackgroundPostmenopausal women are interested in using complementary and alternative medicine because of their menopausal symptoms and the side effects of chemical medications and hormone therapy. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the use of complementary medicine (CAM) and menopausal symptoms among postmenopausal women.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted among 288 postmenopausal women who were referred to health centers in Kerman, southeastern Iran, from 2020 to 2021. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the CAM questionnaire, and the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS).ResultsThe mean score for the menopausal symptoms of the participants was 8.73 ± 6.11. Only 28.8% of the participants had no/little symptoms. About 65.3% of the participants used at least one type of CAM in the previous year. The most commonly used types of CAM were nutritional supplements, prayer, and medicinal herbs. A significant association was found between the use of medicinal herbs, dry cupping, relaxation and meditation, prayer, and menopausal symptoms. Women experiencing menopausal symptoms used more CAM methods than those without menopausal symptoms (Odds ratio = 2.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.33–3.80).ConclusionThe study results indicated that the severity of menopausal symptoms and scores in somatic-vegetative and urogenital domains were higher in CAM users compared to non-CAM users. But there was no significant difference in the psychological domain between CAM and non-CAM users. Based on the results, it is suggested that more research be done in different communities with different healthcare systems to find out how complementary and alternative medicine affects menopausal symptoms in women.

Medication Adherence, Complementary Medicine Usage and Progression of Diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease in Thais.

PurposeNon-adherence to medication is receiving more attention as a significant problem common to management of chronic diseases including diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study was designed to assess the medication adherence and self-medication in a cohort of Thai patients with diabetic kidney disease, and its association with clinical outcomes.Patients and MethodsNon-dialysis patients with diabetic CKD visiting outpatient’s clinics of Siriraj Hospital, the largest tertiary care in Thailand, were asked for participation. Self-administered questionnaire was given to assess medication adherence (the 6-item-medication-taking-behavior measure in Thai), complementary medicine usage, and personal information. Clinical, pharmaceutical, and relevant laboratory data (at current and the last visit of around 12 months) were abstracted from the medical records.ResultsOf the 220 participants eligible (54.1% male, mean age 71.3), 50.9%, 24.1%, and 25% were classified as high-, medium-, and low-medication adherence, respectively. Overall, 24.1% reported self-usage of at least one type of herbal or complementary medicines. The most commonly identified items were cordyceps, cod liver oil, Nan Fui Chao, and turmeric (6 each), with unidentified Thai herbal mixture in 11. On multivariate analysis, late-stage CKD (stage IV–V) was the only independent predictor for low adherence (odds ratio (OR), 5.54; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.82–10.88). Low adherence was associated with higher blood pressure, lower estimated glomerular filtrate rate (eGFR), and more eGFR decline with greater risk of being rapid CKD progressor (annual eGFR drop >5 mL/min/1.73 m2) [OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.06–1.25].ConclusionMedication taking behavior was a frequently encountered problem in Thai diabetic CKD patients. Increased medication non-adherence was independently predicted by stages of increasing CKD severity, and it was associated with poorer hypertensive control and kidney outcome. Targeting interventions to improve medication adherence should be an important strategy to slow CKD progression among patients with diabetic CKD.

The Knowledge and Attitudes of The Non-Health Worker Citizens and Physicians About Traditional and Complementary Medicine: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: Healthcare professionals will set an example to society with their behaviors about Traditional and Complementary Medicine usage. We aimed to investigate and compare the knowledge and attitudes of society and physicians about Traditional and Complementary Medicine to create an infrastructure for medical training. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study "Turkish Version of Complementary, Alternative and Conventional Medicine Attitude Scale" was used for data collection. Results: A total of 392 physicians and 438 citizens participated in the study. Among all participants, 36.9% had used a Traditional and Complementary Medicine method before and the most used method was phytotherapy. There was a significant difference between groups in terms of the level of knowledge. Surprisingly no significant difference was found between physicians and the public in the "Dissatisfaction with Modern Medicine" subgroup. Conclusion: Although there were differences in the level of knowledge between the public and physicians, it was seen that the behavioral patterns were similar to each other. This situation suggests that physicians are also influenced by the society they live in, rather than scientific data, in their decisions about Traditional and Complementary Medicine. Being as a role model to the public, physicians are responsible for providing evidence-based answers to questions about Traditional and Complementary Medicine and should receive adequate training about methods. Keywords: complementary medicine, therapeutic use, evidence-based practice, knowledge, physicians

Compound Unani formulations used in Zeeq-un-Nafas (Bronchial Asthma) with their therapeutic importance: An overview

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in modern society and there is increasing evidence to suggest that its incidence and severity are increasing. There is a high prevalence of usage of complementary medicine for asthma. Current estimates suggest that 300 million people worldwide suffer from Bronchial asthma. This disease is very well recognized since ancient times in Unani system of medicine. Various ancient Unani Scholars and Physicians have use different Arabic terms like Rabu (short inspiration and prolonged expiration), Buhar, Dama, Intesab-un-Nafas and Zeequn Nafas under the caption of bronchial asthma. They also described the etiopathological factors, clinical features, types, and various complications of bronchial asthma that are presented in detail in their concerning treatises. Unani physicians have been treating this disease for thousands of years and they have mentioned various single as well as compound drugs viz; Kakra Seenghi (Pistacia integerrima) Arusa (Adhatoda vasica), Ajmod (Apium graveolens), Aslussoos (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Bazrul banj (Hyoscyamus niger), Biskhapra (Trianthema portulaca), Doodhi (Euphorbia hirta), Nil(Indigofera: tinctoria), Qinnab (Cannabis sativam) etc. and the compound formulations in the forms of - Kushta, Majoon , Hubb, Sharbat, Arqiyat, Joshanda, Khenshanda, Laooq ,Tiryaq, Sikanjabeen, Rub, Roghaniyat for its treatment. The relevance formulations have been described in this review paper with their ingredients and usage also to provide the benefit to the students and researchers for their further researches

Rice bran arabinoxylan compound and quality of life of cancer patients (RBAC-QoL): Study protocol for a randomized pilot feasibility trial

IntroductionRice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC) is a nutraceutical for enhancing a depleted immune system during and after cancer treatment. This pilot feasibility trial aims to evaluate the effects of RBAC on cancer patients' quality of life during active treatment, compared to placebo, using a validated questionnaire. Other outcome measures include changes in inflammatory and nutritional status, cytokine profile, and gut microbiota. Methods/DesignThe study will recruit 50 participants from a regional cancer center in Australia. Patients aged 18–70, diagnosed with solid organ cancers stage II and above, and currently undergoing active systemic therapies, are eligible. Random allocation of participants into two groups is stratified based on metastatic status and treatment type. The dosage is either 3 g/day of RBAC or placebo in identical packaging. The participants, study coordinator, and treating oncologists are blinded to the interventions. Data collections are at baseline and at four follow-up sessions, which are six weeks apart (24 weeks). Statistical analysis will involve a protected p-value with multiple dependent values and analyzed by ANOVA with repeated measures on the occasion of testing and with both a full Bonferroni or Sidak corrections applied to protect against Type I errors. Any observed significance warrants further analysis with pairwise comparisons. Analysis of covariance will also be performed to assess any influence of the demographic data, cancer diagnosis, as well as changes in physical activity, dietary habits, and complementary medicine usage. Comparisons of gut microbiota will be based on the analysis of the fecal microbiome using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid amplicon sequencing. The proposed research timeline is from October 2018 to May 2022. Trial registrationANZCTR. Reg No: ACTRN12619000562178p.

An exploration of healthcare providers\u2019 experiences and perspectives of Traditional and complementary medicine usage and disclosure by Indigenous cancer patients

BackgroundTraditional and complementary medicines (T&CM) are any form of medicine, practice, treatment, product, technology, knowledge system or ceremony outside of conventional medical practice that aims to prevent and/or treat illness and/or promote well-being. Alongside conventional cancer treatments, T&CM usage is increasing; with 19% of indigenous Australians with cancer reporting using T&CM. There is limited evidence surrounding T&CM use and disclosure by indigenous patients. Our aim was to explore healthcare providers’ views about usage, disclosure/non-disclosure of T&CM by Indigenous cancer patients.MethodsSemi-structured, in-depth interviews with 18 healthcare providers, including three indigenous providers, at a large urban hospital providing care to Indigenous cancer patients were conducted to explore providers’ experiences and attitudes towards T&CM use by Indigenous cancer patients. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to thematically analyse the data.ResultsAnalysis revealed six themes: concern about risk; no ‘real’ benefits; perception of T&CM and conventional medicine as antithetical; barriers to disclosure; ‘patients’ choice’ a double-edged sword; and providers’ lack of knowledge about T&CM. Healthcare providers perceived discord between T&CM and conventional medicine. Most lacked knowledge of T&CM, and had concerns around negative-interactions with conventional treatments. They considered T&CM outside their role, citing this as reasoning for their lack of knowledge. Indigenous healthcare providers had greater understanding and openness towards T&CM.ConclusionsGiven the potential usage of T&CM by Indigenous cancer patients, providers need a more comprehensive understanding of T&CM in order to inform discussion and facilitate effective disclosure on this topic. If indigenous Australians with cancer feel that cancer care providers are unreceptive to discussing T&CM, patient care risks being compromised; particularly given the potential for negative interactions between T&CM and conventional cancer treatments. Fostering health care interactions where indigenous patients feel comfortable to discuss T&CM usage should be a priority for all cancer care services.

1,3,7,8-SUBSTITUTED XANTHINE DERIVATIVES AS POTENTIAL ANTIASTHMATIC AGENTS WHICH ACT ON ADENOSINE RECEPTOR

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in modern society. There is a high prevalence of usage of complementary medicine for asthma. Xanthine derivatives which act on adenosine receptor have been cited as a most popular complementary treatment. This studys was undertaken to determine if there is any evidence for the clinical efficacy of xanthine derivatives for the treatment of asthma symptoms. This review highlights the more recent developments in the design and optimization of xanthine derivatives which act on A2A and A2B adenosine receptor. 1,3,8 and 1,3,7,8-substituted xanthine derivatives were found to be effetive. 1,3,7,8 Substituted xanthine derivative possess good affinity on A2A and A2B AR and are not selective for one particular receptor. This is benefitical for decreasing the side effects related to CVS.

Complementary medicine use and health literacy in older Australians

Objectivesto investigate whether complementary medicine (CAM) use is associated with health literacy levels and decision self-efficacy. Designa cross-sectional survey was distributed to men and women aged 65 years and older who participated in a randomised control trial (N = 153) in Sydney, Australia. ResultsOne hundred and fifty-three people completed the survey of those 66% were females and the mean age was 76 years. Most participants used or were currently using CAM in the past 12 months (75%). The most common source of CAM information were GPs. Participants with higher levels of social support were found more likely to use CAM accessed over the counter (OTC). Participants reporting lower health literacy skills with appraising health information were more likely to use CAM delivered by CAM practitioners. Participants with higher levels of health literacy relating to the domain - “ability to actively engage with health care providers” - were found to use OTC CAM. No relationship was found between participants’ decision-making self-efficacy and use of CAM accessed from a CAM practitioner or OTC. ConclusionsCAM is used by older Australians to maintain their health. Use of CAM was not associated with decision self-efficacy and health literacy. However, CAM users who have less skills with appraising information are possibly more likely to access their CAM from trusted sources such as a CAM practitioners.

Lifestyles and Complementary Medicine: A Survey in the Region of Tuscany

Background: According to the international literature, users of Complementary Medicine (CM), Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) and Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM) are more active, less overweight and have healthier lifestyles. Aim: To evaluate the lifestyle of patients of CM public clinics in the Region of Tuscany and compare it with general data of the surveillance system Multiscopo in Tuscan population (Istat 2013) adjusted for sex and age. Methods: In 2014, the Tuscan Network of Integrative Medicine (now called Tuscan Regional Center for Integrative Medicine) in co-operation with the Regional Health Agency of Tuscany distributed to 1,064 patients (age≥18) visited in CM public clinics, questionnaires on lifestyles. Data included exercise, smoking, diet, alcohol, etc. For data comparison, the sample was divided according to the level of education (medium-low and medium-high). Results: All the subjects who used CM had less sedentary (statistically significant) habits compared to controls in both groups. The consumption of fruit and/or vegetables was also significantly higher among the patients who used CM. Smoking was significantly lower among CM users with medium-low educational level and obesity was higher compared to the corresponding control group. The percentage of drinkers at risk was higher in CM users with medium-low level of education compared to general Tuscan population. Conclusions: CM patients ate more fruit and vegetables, were moderately less sedentary than the general Tuscan population and smoked less compared to the control group (medium-low educational level). However, lifestyles of our sample were not as healthy as the literature usually reports regarding alcohol consumption and obesity.

Complementary Medicine Use, Symptom Burden and Non-Adherence in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Complementary Medicine (CAM) is often used by patients with chronic illness and may not be disclosed to health care providers without prompting. In other populations, patients who use CAM were more likely to alter medications without discussing it with their provider. This study examined the relationship between self-reported use of CAM, attitudes toward care, and adherence to medical therapy in a population of inner-City kidney transplant recipients. Cross-sectional observational analysis in a random convenience sample from the outpatient transplant clinic. Data were obtained via face-to-face structured closed-ended interview using validated survey instruments. 45% of patients reported using CAM. Of the study participants who used CAM, 39.1% reported non-adherence to immunosuppressant medications within the past three months, while among the non-CAM users, 17.9% reported non-adherence (p value=0.084). Adherence to hypoglycemic medication was significantly lower CAM users,(p=0.029). Patients who reported having somatic symptoms were more likely to use CAM. Symptom sum was significantly associated with CAM use, p=0.030, with 47.8% CAM users reporting skin problems vs. 10.7% non-CAM users,p=0.003 and 17.4% CAM users noting loss of appetite, compared to 3.5% of non-CAM users,p=0.002 In a random subgroup of 26 patients, 15% who did not use CAM reported medication side effects, while 53% of CAM users reported them, p =0.039. Use of CAM was common in our kidney transplant population. Patients who use CAM reported more somatic symptoms, more medication side effects and were more likely to be non-adherent to non-immunosuppressant medications. Positive response to questions about CAM use may be a surrogate marker for high symptom burden and risk of non-adherence to non-immunosuppresion medications in kidney transplant recipients.

Responses of Diabetes Mellitus Patients Who Used Complementary Medicine

Diabetes Mellitus as a chronic disease tend to seek appropriate medical treatment to heal the condition. Health-seek searched can be either medical treatment or Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This study explored deeply on the response of diabetes mellituspatients who visited to Indonesian Traditional Medicine Polyclinic on Regional Public Hospital dr. Soetomo Surabaya in using complementary medicine. This study used qualitative study with phenomenological method approach. The focus of this study was diabetes mellitus patients who use complementary medicine. Nine participants were selected based on purposive sampling method with certain criteria. Data collection used was in-depth interview and field note. Data analysis used thematic content analysis. Determining five themes that correspond with the purpose of study and a new theme. Some themes were psychological response after being diagnosed diabetes mellitus, opinion on the diabetes mellitus disease, complementary medicine usage patterns, reasons, the response after the use of complementary medicine, and family support. As a chronic disease, patients need proper treatment and conduct it continuously. Healer shopping was often taken by diabetes mellituspatients. It was required cooperation between patients and health professionals to monitor the behavior in order to achieve the effectiveness of medical treatment.

Responses of Diabetes Mellitus Patients Who Used Complementary Medicine

Diabetes Mellitus as a chronic disease tend to seek appropriate medical treatment to heal the condition. Health-seek searched can be either medical treatment or Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This study explored deeply on the response of diabetes mellituspatients who visited to Indonesian Traditional Medicine Polyclinic on Regional Public Hospital dr. Soetomo Surabaya in using complementary medicine. This study used qualitative study with phenomenological method approach. The focus of this study was diabetes mellitus patients who use complementary medicine. Nine participants were selected based on purposive sampling method with certain criteria. Data collection used was in-depth interview and field note. Data analysis used thematic content analysis. Determining five themes that correspond with the purpose of study and a new theme. Some themes were psychological response after being diagnosed diabetes mellitus, opinion on the diabetes mellitus disease, complementary medicine usage patterns, reasons, the response after the use of complementary medicine, and family support. As a chronic disease, patients need proper treatment and conduct it continuously. Healer shopping was often taken by diabetes mellituspatients. It was required cooperation between patients and health professionals to monitor the behavior in order to achieve the effectiveness of medical treatment.

Users of complementary medicine generally maintain a healthy lifestyle

Introduction: It is known that sociodemographic factors are related to the use of complementary medicine (CM). The aim of this study was to investigate the role of health behaviours in this context. Methods: Data of the representative Swiss Health Survey 2012 (18'357 respondents aged 15 years or older) was obtained from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office. A CM user was defined as someone who had used at least one CM method (practitioner delivered not self-care) within 12 months before the survey. Logistic regression analysis was performed with CM use as the dependent variable and health behaviours as independent variables (adjusted for gender, age group, education). Results: Non-smokers (odds ratio, OR, 1.191, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.077–1.317), people not eating meat (OR 1.528, CI 1.152–2.027), people who had never received a flu shot (OR 1.186, CI 1.078–1.306), were physically active (OR 1.441, CI 1.216–1.707), or ate at least 5 portions of fruit/vegetables per day (OR 1.498, CI 1.338–1.677) were more likely to use CM than smokers, people eating meat, having received a flu shot, being physically inactive or eating 2 portions or less of fruit/vegetables, respectively. People who were adipose (OR 0.772, CI 0.656–0.909) or never consumed alcohol (OR 0.686, CI 0.585–0.805) were less likely to use CM than people with normal body mass index or who drank alcohol regularly. Conclusion: CM users generally engaged in positive health behaviours (such as not smoking, being physically active, eating 5 portions of fruit/vegetables per day) and had fewer risk factors compared to non-users.

Usage of Complementary Medicine in Switzerland: Results of the Swiss Health Survey 2012 and Development Since 2007.

BackgroundComplementary medicine (CM) is popular in Switzerland. Several CM methods (traditional Chinese medicine/acupuncture, homeopathy, anthroposophic medicine, neural therapy, and herbal medicine) are currently covered by the mandatory basic health insurance when performed by a certified physician. Treatments by non-medical therapists are partially covered by a supplemental and optional health insurance. In this study, we investigated the frequency of CM use including the evolvement over time, the most popular methods, and the user profile.MethodsData of the Swiss Health Surveys 2007 and 2012 were used. In 2007 and 2012, a population of 14,432 and 18,357, respectively, aged 15 years or older answered the written questionnaire. A set of questions queried about the frequency of use of various CM methods within the last 12 months before the survey. Proportions of usage and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for these methods and CM in general. Users and non-users of CM were compared using logistic regression models.ResultsThe most popular methods in 2012 were homeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy, herbal medicine, and acupuncture. The average number of treatments within the 12 months preceding the survey ranged from 3 for homeopathy to 6 for acupuncture. 25.0% of the population at the age of 15 and older had used at least one CM method in the previous 12 months. People with a chronic illness or a poor self-perceived health status were more likely to use CM. Similar to other countries, women, people of middle age, and those with higher education were more likely to use CM. 59.9% of the adult population had a supplemental health insurance that partly covered CM treatments.ConclusionsUsage of CM in Switzerland remained unchanged between 2007 and 2012. The user profile in Switzerland was similar to other countries, such as Germany, United Kingdom, United States or Australia.

Complementary medicine usage by cancer patients is motivated by attitudes

Complementary medicine usage by cancer patients is motivated by attitudes