Prevalence Of Complementary And Alternative Medicine Use Research Articles

The Use of Natural Therapies in Patients With Skin Cancer: A Scoping Review.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use has become a field of growing interest in dermatology. However, the prevalence of CAM use is difficult to quantify as it varies based on many factors. Given the exploratory nature of the topic, a scoping review was conducted to identify studies that quantify biologically based CAM use in skin cancer patients. A comprehensive search of Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from inception to August 28th, 2023, was performed. A total of 3,150 articles were identified through the database search. After article screening, 6 studies were suitable for inclusion in this review. Articles included were all questionnaire, survey, or interview style. Biologically based CAM use is prevalent in skin cancer patients. It can be associated with many factors such as location, stage of cancer, and age. CAM use can interact with conventional therapy; therefore, physicians should employ a culturally competent approach to inquiring about CAM use in order to improve patient outcomes and identify patterns and predictors of use.J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(5):322-326. doi:10.36849/JDD.8077.

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.

Uso de la medicina complementaria y alternativa y enfoques para hacer frente al estrés en las mujeres con cáncer de mama: un estudio transversal

ObjectiveThe study aimed to reveal the approaches to coping with stress of women with breast cancer and the factors predicting these approaches, to determine the prevalence and characteristics of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), and to examine the relationship between use of CAM and approaches to coping with stress. MethodsA descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 women with breast cancer at a training and research hospital in Türkiye. Data were collected with the Descriptive Information Form and the Stress Coping Styles Scale (SCSS). ResultsWomen's SCSS score was 47.26±6.39 (effective) and 37.76±6.33 (ineffective). The SCSS score were not significantly different between CAM users and non-CAM users (P>.05). The prevalence of CAM use was 36%, the most common types of CAM were herbal products (55.1%) and prayer (33.8%) and the reasons for using CAM were for relaxation (symptomatic) (43.2%). As a result of multivariate logistic regression analysis, level of income, working, number of living children, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, having a family history of cancer, and the interest of their partner after the disease were associated with effective coping with stress (P<.05, adjusted R2=.08, .05, and .33 respectively). Working, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, stage of cancer, and having a history of cancer in a social environment were associated with ineffective coping with stress (P<.05, adjusted R2=.14 and .11 respectively). ConclusionsOne-third of women were using CAM and had a good level of approaches to coping with stress. Healthcare providers, especially gynecology-oncology nurses, should provide counseling on CAMs and develop strategies for coping with stress for women with breast cancer.

The use of complementary and alternative medicine and approaches to coping with stress in women with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study⋆

ObjectiveThe study aimed to reveal the approaches to coping with stress of women with breast cancer and the factors predicting these approaches, to determine the prevalence and characteristics of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), and to examine the relationship between use of CAM and approaches to coping with stress. MethodsA descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 women with breast cancer at a training and research hospital in Türkiye. Data were collected with the “Descriptive Information Form” and the “Stress Coping Styles Scale (SCSS)”. ResultsWomen's SCSS score was 47.26 ± 6.39 (effective) and 37.76 ± 6.33 (ineffective). The SCSS score were not significantly different between CAM users and non-CAM users (p > 0.05). The prevalence of CAM use was 36%, the most common types of CAM were herbal products (55.1%) and prayer (33.8%) and the reasons for using CAM were for relaxation (symptomatic) (43.2%). As a result of multivariate logistic regression analysis, level of income, working, number of living children, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, having a family history of cancer, and the interest of their partner after the disease were associated with effective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R2 = 0.08, 0.05, and 0.33 respectively). Working, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, stage of cancer, and having a history of cancer in a social environment were associated with ineffective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R2 = 0.14 and 0.11 respectively). ConclusionsOne-third of women were using CAM and had a good level of approaches to coping with stress. Healthcare providers, especially gynecology-oncology nurses, should provide counseling on CAMs and develop strategies for coping with stress for women with breast cancer.

Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients with Rare Bone Diseases and Osteoporosis.

(1) Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has seen a notable increase in popularity. However, there is an absence of data regarding the prevalence of CAM use in patients with rare bone diseases (RBDs). (2) Methods: This monocentric, cross-sectional study was carried out in a reference hospital for RBDs. RBD patients included individuals with osteogenesis imperfecta, hypophosphatasia and X-linked hypophosphatemia, and their data were compared with those of patients with osteoporosis (OPO) and of healthy controls (CON). This study utilized the German version (I-CAM-G) of the I-CAM questionnaire. (3) Results: This study comprised 50 RBD patients [mean age (SD) of 48.8 (±15.9), 26% male], 51 OPO patients [66.6 (±10.0), 9.8% male] and 52 controls [50.8 (±16.3), 26.9% male]. Treatments by naturopaths/healers were more prevalent in the RBD group (11.4%) compared with OPO (0%) and CON (5.8%) (p = 0.06). More than half of the OPO (60.8%) and CON (63.5%) patients and 46% of the RBD patients reported vitamin/mineral intake within the past 12 months (p = 0.16). Individuals with tertiary education had a significantly higher odds ratio of 2.64 (95% CI: 1.04-6.70, p = 0.04) for visiting any CAM provider. Further, OPO patients were significantly less likely to use self-help techniques compared with the CON group (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19-0.95; p = 0.04). (4) Conclusions: Herbal medicine, vitamin and mineral supplements, and self-help techniques were the most common forms of CAM reported by patients with RBDs. However, the use of CAM was generally low.

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.

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.

Safety perception and determinants of complementary and alternative medicine usage among surgery out-patients in LAUTECH Teaching hospital, ogbomoso, Nigeria

ObjectivesThe use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) stemmed from the search of humans for other means of relieving pain and managing diseases which has plagued its existence. CAM use is on the increase among the general population in both the developed and developing nations and also among surgical patients. There is therefore a need to ascertain the perceived adverse effects, the safety perception and the determinants of its use so as to improve the advocacy for adequate regulation. MethodsIt was a cross-sectional study carried out among surgical outpatients in a tertiary hospital. One hundred and fifty patients between the ages of 18 and 85 years were recruited. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from each participant. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22. ResultsThe lifetime prevalence of CAM use among the respondents was 76 % while the point/current prevalence was 37.3 %. The percentage of current users using CAM for surgical complaints was 30.4 %. Biological based therapy accounted for 110 (72 %) of CAM used and unbranded herbal products was responsible for more than two-third of it. Almost a third of the patients (46, 30.7 %) perceived that CAM is safe while 62 (41.3 %) were not sure of its safety. Only 15 (13.2 %) and 6 (5.3 %) have ever recorded side effects and drug interactions respectively. Older age group, income less than 10,000 Naira, positive safety perception and belief about CAM were identified as determinants of CAM usage. ConclusionsThe prevalence of CAM usage among surgical outpatients was quite high and the major determinants of its use are the patient's age, safety perception and their level of income.

The Prevalent Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Patients With Chronic Disease in the Al-Madinah Population of Saudi Arabia.

Global interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has recently risen, particularly in Saudi Arabia, and the use of CAM is gaining popularity as a healthcare option. This study aims to assess the prevalence of CAM use among patients with chronic diseases and identify the reasons for resorting to CAM in Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Madinah City. Data for analysis were derived from 416 participants with chronic diseases. The data were collected using a valid, structured online questionnaire that was designed to extract socio-demographic data as well as data on the predominant use of herps, hijama (cupping), acupuncture, and other specific CAM applications. The collected data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Of the 416 participants, 164 (39.4%) were men, and 96.9% were Saudi citizens. Approximately one-third of the studied participants had diabetes (34.1%), while 29.3%, 25.2%, 15.1%, and 12.3% had hypertension, obesity, asthma, and gastrointestinal tract disease, respectively. The prevalence of herb and natural supplement use was 89.2%. The most commonly used herbs and natural supplements were ginger (55.5%), honey and its derivatives (53.4%), cinnamon (45.4%), and frankincense (33.4%). Of the studied participants, 36.1% and 6.5% reported undergoing cupping and acupuncture, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the use of herbs and acupuncture or any of the studied factors. Further, the use of acupuncture exhibited no significant differences. However, the use of cupping displayed statistically significant differences in age, sex, and income among the participants. The prevalence of CAM use among patients with chronic diseases in Al-Madinah is high. It appears to play an essential role in health care, particularly in treating patients with chronic diseases in this population. Therefore, promoting research in the field of CAM is warranted.

Prevalence and Determinants of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use Among Subjects with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in a Tertiary Institution in South East Nigeria

Background: There is limited data on the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Nigeria. This study aims to examine the prevalence, types, and determinants of CAM use among T2DM patients in Southeast Nigeria.&#x0D; Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of 250 diabetic patients who attended the DM clinic in a tertiary institution in South East Nigeria. Each participant completed a questionnaire which had sections on demography, diabetes-related information, and CAM use details. Data collated was analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 for windows.&#x0D; Results: The prevalence of CAM use in this study was 34%. After adjustment; the logistic regression results showed that CAM use was significantly associated with age, and place of residence. The most commonly used type of CAM by participants were bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) (56.5%), followed by bitter cola (Garcinia kola) (47%), scent leaf (African basil) (40%), moringer (20%), utazi (Gongronema latifolium) 17.7%), and aloe vera (7.1%) before the rest. The majority of CAM users were referred to use CAM by friends (68.2%), family members (25.9%), or media (14.1%). Most subjects (75.5%) used CAM concurrently with orthodox medications and only 32.9%% knew the constituents of the CAM they were using. However, gender, marital status, occupation, educational level, income, and DM duration did not significantly associate with CAM use in this study.&#x0D; Key words. Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Diabetes Mellitus&#x0D; Conclusions: The prevalence of CAM use was high among diabetics. Further studies to isolate and purify the constituents responsible for the anti-glycemic activity of each compound may be needed in the future.

The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Coping with Stress by Patients with Gynecological Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study in Türkiye

Introduction: Gynecological cancers are long-term, challenging, and stressful diseases. In Türkiye, the majority of patients with gynecological cancer use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Considering the stress that gynecological cancer patients are exposed to, patients need to know how to cope with stress. Objective: This study aimed to determine the use of CAM and coping with stress by patients with gynecological cancer and the relationships between them and the factors that predict the approaches to coping with stress in women with gynecological cancer in Türkiye. Methods: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study. The study was conducted with 204 patients between April and August 2022. The data of the study were collected by face-to-face interview and filled out by the patients using the Descriptive Information Form and the Stress Coping Styles Scale (SCSS). Number, percentage, mean, χ², one-way ANOVA, t test, and the Spearman correlation analysis were used in the data analysis. To analyze the multivariate independent associations between variables, a multivariate ordinal logistic regression model was used, with the SCSS domains as dependent variables. A 95% confidence interval was calculated, and all statistical tests had an alpha level of 0.05. Results: The mean age of the patients was 58.38 ± 12.64 years (32–80). The prevalence of CAM use by patients was 39.2%, and the most common types of CAM were herbal products (43.8%) and supplication (42.5%). The reasons for using CAM were relaxation (symptomatic)-feeling healthy (63.8%) and treating cancer (36.2%). No statistically significant difference was found between the use of CAM and their approaches to coping with stress (p > 0.05). As a result of multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis, education level under high school, having ovary, cervix, and endometrium cancer, being in the first stage of cancer, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgical treatment, having another cancer patient in the social environment and increased interest in a partner after the diagnosis of cancer was associated with an effective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R² = 0.27, 0.79, and 0.32, respectively). Not working, experiencing an abortion, having another cancer patient in their social environment, being in the third stage of cancer, having an extended family, and living in a rural area of residence were associated with ineffective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R² = 0.20 and 0.24, respectively). Conclusions: The prevalence of CAM use by patients was low. While determining the approaches of the patients to cope with stress, their education level, place of residence, family type, diagnosis of cancer, stage of cancer, treatment, partner support, and stressful life events should be considered. As nurses, we need to be more knowledgeable about the use of CAM to provide correct guidance to our patients for access to accurate and effective information. We need to determine our patients’ stressors and how our patients cope with stress.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Patients with Dry Eye Syndrome in Saudi Arabia: A Survey Study.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes all healthcare practices that are not part of conventional medicine. One of the most common eye disorders for visiting an ophthalmology clinic is dry eye disease (DED), and due to the increasing number of CAM used for eye conditions, 1 in 5 patients has been reported in previous studies to use CAM for eye treatment. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CAM use among patients with (DED). A web-based survey was used to collect the data, the first part of the questionnaire was about demographic data, and the second part included a validated Arabic version of the ocular surface disease index (OSDI). The third part was about practices that alleviate DED other than conventional medicine. The total sample was 282, 61 were males, and 221 were females. Most participants (48.5%) were between 25 and 44 years old, 90% were Saudi, and only 10% were non-Saudi. Of the participant, 70% reported having attained a university or higher education level. The prevalence of the use of CAM among patients with dry eye was around 85%. The most frequently reported type of CAM used among the participants was faith healing (Ruqyah) (41%). This was followed by warm compressors (37%). There was no significant correlation between the severity of OSDI and using CAM, as the p-value was 0.909. In conclusion, our study shows that CAM is a popular choice among patients with dry eye syndrome. Faith healing and warm compressors are the most used types of CAM. However, the lack of correlation between OSDI severity and CAM use indicates that patients may use CAM for reasons other than symptom severity. Further research is needed to explore the reasons behind CAM use and its effectiveness in managing dry eye syndrome.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Patients With Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Global studies have observed a disparity in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among diabetic patients. To estimate the prevalence, types, and correlates of CAMuse among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1290 Saudis with type 2 DM aged ≥18 years. An electronic questionnaire was distributed through social media to collect data about patient demographics and DM-related characteristics, including age at DM diagnosis, DM duration, family history of DM, DM complications, DM medicine, and chronic diseases. The use of CAM and its type, cost, and duration; sources of CAM-related information; reason for using CAM; usefulness and side effects; CAM use in the future; and doctor consultation before CAM use were also evaluated. Among CAM non-users, the reason for not using CAM and future considerations of CAM were assessed. A total of 1290 patients were included (27.4%) aged 18-29 years; 726 (56.3%) were women; 554 (42.9%) had a bachelor's degree in education; and 457 (35.4%) were unemployed. The prevalence of CAM use was 528 (40.9%). The most commonly used types were bitter apple 503 (95.3%), cinnamon 341 (64.6%), and ginger 290 (55.1%). The most frequent sources of CAM-related information were friends, families, and neighbors 259 (49.2%), while the most frequent justifications for use were the need for another DM treatment and faith in its advantages. Only 106 (20.1%) of the patients who used CAM disclosed adverse effects; 373 (51.8%) said they would use it again, and 66.1% said they would recommend it to other patients. Only 145 (27.5%) consulted a doctor before using CAM. CAM was more commonly used by patients who were older, women, married, and taking hypoglycemic drugs; whose most recent HbA1c level was 7-10%; and who had dyslipidemia, chronic disease, and a family history of DM. The prevalence of CAM use is high among the Saudi population. Analyzing CAM use is essential in clinical interactions with Saudis with DM. The managing healthcare professionals must educate patients with DM on how to use CAM more effectively and safely.

Complementary and alternative medicine use by pregnant women in Japan: a pilot survey

BackgroundComplementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are popular among women, and are used during their pregnancy in Japan. This study aimed to survey the prevalence of CAM use by healthy pregnant women as a health-care prescribed therapy or self-care and to investigate the factors associated with CAM use in Japan.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, pregnant women after 34 weeks of gestation were asked to respond to a questionnaire at the clinic or online. The questionnaire comprised questions on the participants’ characteristics and their use of CAM for therapy and self-care. Descriptive statistics were calculated in the analyses, and bivariate and multivariate logistic analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between factors and CAM use.ResultsA total of 394 women responded from three hospitals, two clinics, and two midwifery birth centers. CAM was received as treatment by practitioners during pregnancy by 75 women (19.0%). The following therapies were used: traditional Chinese medicine (7.9%), chiropractic (6.9%), moxibustion (6.4%), and acupuncture (5.3%). One or more types of therapy were used as self-care by 348 women (88.3%). Highly used CAM for self-care were: folic acid supplementation (75.4%), other supplements (51.5%), herbs (20.8%), and yoga (19.0%). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that the factors associated with CAM use as a therapy were midwifery birth centers for planned childbirth settings (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.69–7.83]) and pregnancy complications diagnosed (AOR 2.46, 95%CI [1.38–4.39]). The factors associated with CAM use for self-care were age 30–39 years (AOR 4.48, 95%CI [2.14–9.73]) and over 40 years (AOR 3.92, 95%CI [1.10–13.91]), junior college education or above (AOR 2.30, 95%CI [1.18–4.51]), and primiparas (AOR 3.82, 95%CI [1.86–7.86]). The most common source of information was the “Internet” (43.8%).ConclusionsApproximately 20% of Japanese pregnant women received CAM as therapy by practitioners, and the related factors were: tended to have baby at midwifery birth center and pregnancy complications. Almost 90% of respondents used CAM as self-care and the related factors were: older, had a higher educational level and tended to be primiparas. They used the Internet as their main source of information about CAM. Health care providers need to provide evidenced-based information on CAM and to help decision making to ensure safe and effective CAM utilization by pregnant women.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Patients With Cancer and Immigration Background.

Studies have shown that patients with cancer are more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) than noncancer patients for symptom relief and hope. We aimed to evaluate factors of race, ethnic groups, and immigration status in attitude of patients with cancer in seeking out CAM. This is a prospective questionnaire study where information on demographics, cancer information, race/ethnicity, immigration duration, and psychosocial factors was correlated with the CAM use in a community cancer center located in the borough of Brooklyn, at New York City. Among 658 patients, the prevalence of CAM use was 66.11%. CAM use was 71.98% in females and 54.34% in males (P = .113 × 10-4). Patients of African descent had higher CAM use (72.73%) than the White patients (63.53%; P = .0371). There was no difference of CAM use between the US born (68.77%) and the immigrants (63.98%, P = .199) as a whole; however, comparing with the US born (66.50%), Asian-born immigrants had lower CAM use (53.77%, P = .0161), whereas Latin-American born had a numerical trend toward higher CAM use (74.83%, P = .0608). The number of years of living in the United States was not associated with more CAM use. Prayer and spirituality was the most common CAM subtype used (25.91%). There was no difference in CAM use in the respective non-White ethnic groups whether they were US born or non-US born. In this cohort of patients with cancer enriched with immigration background, CAM use was the highest in African American patients. The use of CAM in the non-White patients was associated with their ethnic background, regardless whether they were US born or not. Cultural roots appeared to be a strong influencing factor for the usage of CAM.

Terminally ill patients’ and their relatives’ experiences and behaviors regarding complementary and alternative medicine utilization in hospice palliative inpatient care units: a cross-sectional, multicenter survey

BackgroundTerminally ill patients often experience exacerbations of diseases that render mainstream medicine ineffective in relieving symptoms, prompting attempts at complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This study collected data from terminally ill patients and their relatives to determine differences between CAM use, behavioral patterns, and perceptions of health information about CAM.MethodsA cross-sectional design using a self-administered questionnaire was adopted. Eight medical institutions in Taiwan with inpatient hospice palliative care units were chosen. Ninety-two terminally ill patients and 267 relatives met the inclusion criteria. The questions concerned the experience of CAM use, the kinds of products/services CAM provided, the purpose of CAM use, the source of CAM information, and the perceptions and attitudes toward CAM.ResultsBoth terminally ill patients and their relatives have a high proportion of lifetime and one-year prevalence of CAM use (88.0% vs. 88.4%; p = 0.929). CAM use for musculoskeletal and neurological discomfort is higher among terminally ill patients than among their relatives. Relatives/friends are the most frequent sources of information on CAM (53.3% vs. 62.2%; p = 0.133). The percentage of terminally ill patients who discontinued mainstream medical treatment because of CAM use was higher than that of their relatives (18.5% vs. 9.3%; p = 0.026). More than half the terminally ill patients and their relatives had never been asked about CAM by medical staff (64.1% vs. 66.7%), nor had they informed medical professionals about the use of CAM products and services (63% vs. 66.9%). Random inquiries by medical professionals may be associated with increased disclosure of CAM use (terminally ill patients: odds ratio, 9.75; 95% confidence interval, 1.97–48.35 vs. relatives: odds ratio, 5.61; 95% confidence interval, 2.66–11.83).ConclusionsThe high prevalence and concealment of CAM use in terminally ill patients should be considered. Medical professionals should establish a friendly and barrier-free communication model, encourage patients to share CAM experiences, and provide evidence-based information on the use of CAM products and services, to reduce the potential damage caused by harmful use.

Alternative and complementary medicine in neurological disorders and neurological disability patients: Prevalence, factors, opinions and reasons

ObjectivesThis cross-sectional study is aimed to investigate the prevalence of the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), types of CAMs used, as well as reasons and factors found in patients with neurological diseases or neurological disability. MethodsAn anonymous, self-administered survey was designed to collect information about demographics, personal medical history, CAM usage habits, and different opinions about CAM vs. conventional medicine (CM). The survey was applied by non-medical personnel in a rehabilitation hospital to patients older than 18 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of neurological disorder or neurological disability. Results453 patients were included, 59.7 % were female. Mean age: 49 years (SD: 18.2). 200 patients (44.2 %) had a history of chronic diseases. Depression was found in 139 patients (30.7 %). Neurological disorders were: peripheral neuropathy: 97 (21.4 %), headache or migraine: 78 (17.2 %), neurodegenerative diseases: 69 (15.2 %) and stroke: 58 (12.8 %). 60.2 % (n = 273) had some degree of disability. Prevalence of CAM use was 36 % (n = 163). Most common CAMs were: Biological therapies: 133 (71.1 %), energy-based therapies: 63 (33.7 %) and body manipulation therapies: 51 (27.3 %). Reasons to use CAM were: “to complement the pharmacological treatment” (45 = 27.6 %), and “treatment failure with CM” (43 = 26.4 %). Finally, older age (p = 0.0280) and having a chronic disease (p = 0.0229) or depression (p < 0.001) were the factors associated with the current use of CAM. ConclusionOne third of patients with neurological pathologies use CAM, the most popular type of CAM is biologic therapies. As in other pathologies, CAM use was associated with older age, history of depression, and chronic diseases. Therefore, it is suggested that physicians routinely ask patients about the use of CAM, if they need more information about CAM, and even verify the possibility of drug interactions or adverse effects.

Disclosure of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Although use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is rising among older adults, many do not discuss these healthcare practices with their primary care practitioners (PCPs). This study sought to determine the prevalence of CAM use and to identify factors associated with CAM disclosure among patients ages 65 and older. Methods: Participants completed an anonymous survey, which evaluated their CAM use over the past year and disclosure of CAM to a PCP. Additional questions queried demographics, patient health, and relationships with one's PCP. Analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results: One hundred seventy-three participants answered surveys. Sixty percent reported use of at least one form of CAM in the past year. Among those using CAM, 64.4% disclosed use to their PCP. Patients disclosed supplements/herbal products and naturopathy/homeopathy/acupuncture at a higher rate than body work techniques and mind-body practices (71.9% and 66.7% vs. 48% and 50%). The only factor significantly associated with disclosure was trust in one's PCP (odds ratio = 2.97; confidence interval = 1.01-8.73). Conclusions: Clinicians may improve CAM disclosure rates in older adults by inquiring about all types of CAM and continuing to invest in their patient relationships, specifically by building trust.

PSAT330 Excess Iodine Intake From a Cystic Fibrosis Supplement Induces Symptomatic Hypothyroidism

Abstract A 45-year-old woman with cystic fibrosis (delF508/delF508), pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, and diet-controlled cystic fibrosis-related diabetes presented with new complaints of dry skin, hair loss, and cold intolerance. She had no personal or family history of thyroid disease. Physical exam was notable for a mildly enlarged, non-tender thyroid gland without nodules, and 2+ bicep reflexes with delayed relaxation phase. Labs revealed a TSH of 17 mcIU/mL (n 0.3-4.20 mcIU/mL), free T4 of 0.6 ng/dL (n 0.9-1.7 ng/dL), and a thyroid peroxidase antibody of 15 units/mL (n 0-34 units/mL), consistent with new onset, overt hypothyroidism. Thyroid ultrasound revealed a hypervascular, heterogeneous gland, suggestive of underlying autoimmune thyroid disease. Given such an abrupt and significant change in previously normal thyroid studies, further history was obtained. The patient disclosed taking TauriNac, a supplement discovered online that is believed to help clear heavy metals, which she believed she was exposed to via IV antibiotics, and for treatment of her cystic fibrosis. The patient was taking 3-4 packets of TauriNac per day, totaling 16,000 mcg of potassium iodide, far exceeding the Recommended Dietary Allowance of 150 mcg per day. She discontinued TauriNac and one month later, thyroid function tests normalized. The patient then resumed TauriNac, 2-3 packets per day, and within five months TSH rose to 9.66 mcIU/mL with free T4 0.9 ng/dL. She again stopped taking TauriNac and two months after discontinuation thyroid levels normalized. Later, after yet again resuming TauriNac, 5 packets per week, her TSH increased to 4.71 mcIU/mL. She subsequently discontinued TauriNac with normalization of her TSH after three months. Over one year later, she remains off TauriNac and is clinically and biochemically euthyroid. In the 1970s, development of a goiter and hypothyroidism was reported in CF patients, especially those treated with iodine-based expectorants, raising concern for underlying thyroid dysfunction in CF; however the true prevalence of underlying thyroid dysfunction in CF patients is controversial. A 2016 United States-based study of CF patients revealed abnormal thyroid function tests in 27%, however the abnormalities were mild, and overt thyroid dysfunction was rare. In our center's experience, transient subclinical hypothyroidism associated with CF exacerbations is common and may correlate with poor dietary intake leading to iodine deficiency. In this case, excessive iodide intake via TauriNAC clearly correlated with the development of symptomatic hypothyroidism, presumably due to failure to escape the Wolff-Chaikoff effect. In a 2002 survey of adult CF patients, 70% reported having taken complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the past. The high prevalence of CAM use in the CF population as well as prior studies demonstrating iodine induced hypothyroidism in CF patients should inform providers of the potential harmful effects of iodine supplementation in an iodine-replete population. Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE USE IN BRAZILIAN PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE.

The conventional treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is based on drug therapy, but different studies have shown a progressive increase in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The most used CAM comprises of acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, homeopathy, and herbal medicine, as well as more modern practices, including aromatherapy and reflexology. Data from CAM use in Brazil has previously been scarce and there are no studies among Brazilian patients with IBD. The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of, and factors associated with the use of CAM among IBD patients in Brazil, in addition to estimating the satisfaction with CAM use. A cross-sectional study was performed in adult IBD outpatients from two Southeastern Brazilian referral centers, with a total a sample of 227 individuals. A semi-structured questionnaire was used containing CAM products - tea, probiotics, omega 3 or glutamine, homeopathy, and herbal therapy, and factors associated with CAM use and patient satisfaction. We used descriptive statistics, association tests (P<0.05) and logistic regression for statistical analyses. In total, 126 patients with Crohn's disease and 101 with ulcerative colitis were included. The mean age was 41.19±14.49 years and 57.27% were female. The time since diagnosis was 10.58±7.5 years, and most patients were in clinical remission. Twenty-nine patients (12.8%) reported having used CAM for IBD treatment, such as tea (5.29%), probiotics (5.29%), omega-3 or glutamine (1.76%), homeopathy (0.88%), and herbal therapies (0.44%). Despite the low frequency, patients were satisfied (>50%). There was no difference between CAM use in Crohn's disease as compared to ulcerative colitis patients (P=0.1171). The factors associated with the use of CAM were regular or poor quality of life (odds ratio 2.084; 95% confidence interval 1.147-3.786, P=0.0159) and a shorter time since diagnosis (odds ratio 0.956; 95% confidence interval 0.918-0.995; P=0.0260). The prevalence of CAM use was low, but satisfactory among Brazilian IBD patients. The application of CAM has been associated with poor quality of life and shorter disease duration compared to patients with no use of CAM.