Utilization Of Alternative Medicine Research Articles

Evidence-based practice in traditional persian medicine (TPM): a stakeholder and social network analysis

BackgroundThe utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is experiencing a global surge, accompanied by the adoption of national CAM policies in numerous countries. Traditional Persian medicine (TPM) is highly used as CAM in Iran, and the ongoing scientific evaluation of its interventions and the implementation of evidence-based medicine (EBM) encounters various barriers. Therefore, comprehending the characteristics and interactions of stakeholders is pivotal in advancing EBM within TPM policies. In this study, we utilized both classical stakeholder analysis and social network analysis to identify key stakeholders and potential communication patterns, thereby promoting EBM in TPM policy-making.MethodsA cross-sectional nationwide stakeholder analysis was conducted in 2023 using snowball sampling. The interviews were carried out using a customized version of the six building blocks of health. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Stakeholders were assessed based on five factors (power, interest, influence, position, and competency). The connections and structure of the network were analyzed using degree, betweenness, closeness centrality, and modularity index to detect clusters of smaller networks.ResultsAmong twenty-three identified stakeholders, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) and the Public were the most powerful and influential. The Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences was the most competent stakeholder. Social network analysis revealed a low density of connections among stakeholders. Pharmaceutical companies were identified as key connectors in the network, while the Public, supreme governmental bodies, and guilds acted as gatekeepers or brokers. The MOHME and Maraji were found to be high-ranking stakeholders based on four different centrality measures.ConclusionThis study identifies powerful stakeholders in the network and emphasizes the need to engage uninterested yet significant stakeholders. Recommendations include improving competence through education, strengthening international relations, and fostering stronger relationships. Engaging key connectors and gatekeepers is essential for bridging gaps in the network.

Prevalence and correlates of complementary and alternative medicine utilization among infertile women attending selected fertility clinics in Khartoum state

Infertility poses multifaceted challenges, prompting many women to explore complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This study investigated CAM prevalence and types among infertile women in Khartoum. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 253 women. Data was collected through structured interviews, and descriptive and inferential statistics, with a significance level set at p>0.05. The mean age of the participants was 31.59±6.9 years, with 53.8% being graduates, 54.5% diagnosed with primary infertility, and 45.5% with secondary infertility. CAM usage was reported by 52.2% of participants, with herbal treatments being the most prevalent (e.g., fenugreek 26.9%, argell 20.2%). Spiritual healing (11.4%) and folkloric methods (9.5%) were also noted. Most users (76.5%) did not disclose CAM usage to healthcare providers, citing beliefs in safety (56.8%) and effectiveness (39.4%). Family (72%) and friends (46%) significantly influenced CAM use. Infertility duration and rural residence were associated with CAM usage (p=0.002). The study underscores a high prevalence of CAM usage among Sudanese infertile women, primarily herbal remedies, and emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers engaging patients in CAM utilization.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of Iranian adults toward Persian Medicine: a national survey

BackgroundPrevious researches conducted in both developed and developing countries have demonstrated a rising trend in the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine. The World Health Organization has underscored the importance of studying the prevalence and determinants of such alternative practices. This study delves into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Iranian adults towards Persian medicine, a distinct form of complementary and alternative medicine, through a national survey for the first time.MethodsA total of 2882 Iranian adults (aged ≥ 15 years) were randomly chosen from all regions. Data were gathered through structured door-to-door interviews using a survey questionnaire, wherein cases were selected randomly based on postal codes, and interviewers completed the forms at the participants’ residences.ResultsApproximately 46% of the subjects exhibited familiarity with Persian Medicine. The study revealed that the primary sources of knowledge about Persian Medicine were family, relatives, and friends, with only 2.9% indicating medical staff as their source of information. Furthermore, the study indicated that 21% of participants expressed a strong interest in using Persian Medicine, while 30.3% did not. When comparing Persian medicine to modern medicine, respondents indicated that Persian medicine is more cost-effective and has fewer side effects, yet modern medicine is more widely used globally; although, the majority responded “I don’t know” to other questions. The results also demonstrated that approximately 37% of the participants had a history of Persian Medicine utilization in their lifetime.ConclusionThis study revealed that Iranian adults have low reliable knowledge (from medical staff, Persian medicine books and other publications) and limited familiarity with Persian medicine, with about one third of the participants expressing disinterest (attitude) and over half of them having not utilized this form of medicine (practice).

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.

Cyberchondria severity and utilization of health services in Polish society: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIt has been suggested that cyberchondria leads to increased utilization of healthcare services. Unfortunately, not many studies have analyzed this effect comprehensively. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between cyberchondria severity and the utilization of healthcare services among adult Internet users after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and the health status of respondents.MethodsThe analysis detailed in this paper examined data from a computer-based, web-based interviewing survey performed among a representative sample of 1613 Polish Internet users. Cyberchondria severity was assessed with the Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS). The variables reflecting the use of healthcare services were based on the frequency of visits to family physicians and specialists, diagnostic procedures, hospital admissions, and emergency services, and finally being vaccinated against COVID-19. The effect of cyberchondria severity on the utilization of healthcare services and alternative medicine was adjusted for key sociodemographic variables, the presence of chronic diseases, disability, and unspecific symptoms. For variables reflecting the use of services, ordinal logistic regression and multivariable logistic regression models were developed.ResultsCyberchondria severity was a significant predictor of the utilization of all but one of the analyzed healthcare services and alternative medicine. The odds of being in a higher category of the utilization of visits to family physicians and specialists, hospital admissions, emergency services and alternative medicine services increased by a factor of 1.01–1.02 for every unit increase of the cyberchondria score. The cyberchondria score was a negative predictor of COVID-19 vaccine uptake. The effect of cyberchondria on outcome variables was independent of the level of health anxiety, sociodemographic variables, and variables reflecting the health status of respondents.ConclusionsCyberchondria leads to more intensive use of nearly all healthcare services, but in the case of vaccination against COVID-19, cyberchondria severity was a negative predictor. Cyberchondria’s effect extends beyond health anxiety.

Utilization of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine Across Ethnically Diverse Asian Americans.

We conducted an analysis to identify factors influencing the use of traditional complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM), with a particular emphasis on ethnic variations. Using the 2015 Asian American Quality of Life survey (N = 2,609), logistic regression analyses were performed, considering acculturation, health status, healthcare accessibility/utilization, and socio-demographic factors. Ethnicity, specifically being Chinese or Korean Americans, having chronic medical conditions, experiencing unmet healthcare needs, and having regular check-ups were significant predictors of TCAM use among Asian Americans as a whole. However, when we delved into sub-ethnic groups, different patterns were found. Among Vietnamese and Filipino Americans, having unmet healthcare needs emerged as the most prominent predictor of TCAM use. Furthermore, acculturation level and English proficiency were significant in predicting Vietnamese and Filipino Americans' TCAM use, with the direction varying by sub-ethnicity. Being old emerged as a predictor of TCAM use for Chinese, Indian, Korean, and 'other' Americans. Our findings underscore the importance of adopting an ethnically sensitive approach when addressing the healthcare needs of diverse Asian American populations.

Trust in Conventional Healthcare and Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in South Tyrol, Italy: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey.

This study explored the link between trust in conventional healthcare and consultations with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) providers in South Tyrol, Italy's linguistically diverse region. A representative cross-sectional survey of 1,388 South Tyrolean adults assessed trust in conventional healthcare, general practitioners, and complementary and alternative medicine consultation frequencies and their determinants using chi-square tests and Kendall-Tau-b correlations. Seventy percent trusted the traditional healthcare system, with general practitioners as the primary trusted professionals. Trust is correlated with higher education and linguistic compatibility. A 5% subgroup, mostly women and multilinguals with lower education levels, showed uncertain trust. Over 80% had seen a general practitioner in the last year, while distrust was correlated with complementary and alternative medicine consultations. German and Ladin speakers, with higher education levels, were notably inclined towards complementary and alternative medicine consultations. Trust in South Tyrolean healthcare varied according to education level and language. While general practitioners remain central, there is a marked shift towards complementary and alternative medicine among specific groups.

Evaluating the barriers to the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the United States: An exploratory study

IntroductionThe utilization of certain forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is prevalent among adults in the United States. While researchers have extensively studied the factors influencing CAM use in Western countries, significant barriers to its adoption remain. This paper draws attention to the obstacles faced by individuals in their journey to using CAM. MethodsQualitative interviews were conducted with 21 patients who had turned to CAM for managing a chronic illness/condition. These in-depth, face-to-face interviews occurred in Miami, USA, during 2014–15. The sampling, data collection, and analysis processes of this study adhered to the principles outlined in Charmaz’s constructivist grounded theory approach. ResultsFrom the data, three central barriers to CAM utilization in the US emerged: 1) Financial barriers: A significant portion of CAM treatments is not covered by insurance, making them cost-prohibitive for many. 2) Skepticism and discouragement: Both conventional medical practitioners and a segment of the public exhibited a noticeable trend towards discouraging CAM use. 3) Evaluation challenges: Patients expressed difficulty in assessing the efficacy and benefits of various CAM treatments compared to their costs. DiscussionDespite the widespread interest in and use of CAM in the US, numerous barriers hinder its broader integration into mainstream healthcare. These obstacles not only restrict healthcare choices for the general public but also appear to favor a select demographic, potentially based on income and availability of information.

From Archipelago to Pandemic Battleground: Unveiling Indonesia's COVID-19 Crisis.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to countries worldwide, including Indonesia. With its unique archipelagic geography consisting of more than 17,000 thousand islands, Indonesia faces unique complexities in managing the spread of the virus. Based on existing literature, this review article elaborates on key issues that have shaped Indonesia's COVID-19 response. The article begins by examining the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, along with the implementation of various preventive measures and the impact of the virus on public health. This article examines how Indonesia's socio-economic factors have generally influenced its healthcare system and further delves into the COVID-19 response strategies implemented by the Indonesian government and public health authorities as well as overall crisis preparedness. It discusses the actions taken to control the spread of the virus, including testing strategies and vaccination efforts. The difficulties encountered in implementing these measures are presented. In conclusion, this review article provides a comprehensive understanding of the COVID-19 crisis in Indonesia, covering facts on multiple dimensions ranging from the timeline of the pandemic to vaccination efforts, epidemiology, socio-economic implications, testing strategies, mobility patterns, public holidays, the impact of working from home, and the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine in addition to the standard of care for COVID-19. The insights gained from this article can complement future strategies for pandemic management and response in Indonesia and other countries facing similar challenges.

43316 Attitudes and Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Dermatology: A Single Center Cross-Sectional Study

43316 Attitudes and Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Dermatology: A Single Center Cross-Sectional Study

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

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

Perception and Attitude about Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among Caregivers of the Mentally Challenged in Ebonyi State: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: Mental health issues pose a great challenge to healthcare systems especially in developing countries, and having 35% global burden of sickness/disability, Nigeria shares 13% of it. Individuals, both the victims and relatives desperately try all they can to treat this condition. Informal caregivers including family members and friends play a major role in seeking help and choosing treatment regimen and most of them choose complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM is popular in treating chronic illnesses including mental conditions in sub-Saharan African as stated by WHO. This study displayed both positive and negative perception and attitude of informal caregivers about CAM use for mental health challenges, characteristics of users, types and outcomes of use. 
 Methodology: The study is a quantitative, cross sectional study carried out from 15th February to 15th of November 2022, using self-structured questionnaires. Of 389 questionnaires administered, 381 copies were returned and properly filled (97.5% response). The informal caregivers of the mentally challenged were recruited using convenience sampling method. The participants have mean age and standard deviation of 33.5+/- 8.6years, whose mentally challenged relatives had used CAM for the past 12 months and some current users. The questionnaires included information on socio-demographic data, perception and attitude about CAM use, types in use, and outcomes of use. SPSS versions 25, student test, ANOVA, among others, were used to compare perception and attitude about use of CAM and socio-demographic data of the caregivers. 92% participants confirmed that their mentally challenged relatives use some forms of CAM in treatment. The therapies used included herbal drugs, spiritual intervention, and alternative medical system (homeopathic medicine).
 Findings: The result revealed both positive and negative perception and attitude about CAM use and most caregivers could not identify any good effects of these therapies but still use them. The findings also showed that some socio-demographic factors affect CAM use. They noted that CAM use alone cannot cure, but also complicate mental illness.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: It was concluded that research on effectiveness and safety of each CAM will help improve mental healthcare.

Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases Among Adults in Ajman, United Arab Emirates.

As the general population is expanding their choices regarding healthcare, many are opting for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in addition to or instead of conventional modes of treatment, for the management of various health conditions. This study investigated the utilization of CAMfor the management of various cardiovascular diseases as well as its risk factors among the adult population in Ajman, UAE. The study was conducted upon receiving approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). This cross-sectional study was conducted by administering an interviewer-administered questionnaire, consisting of three domains aimed at assessing the sociodemographic features and use of CAM and factors associated with the use among the respondents. A total of 414 responses were collected from adults residing in Ajman, UAE, who consented to participate in the study. A chi-square test was performed on Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 27.0, Armonk, NY)to assess the association between the use of CAM and factors. Statistical significance was set to p ≤ 0.05. Out of 414 participants in the study, 57% of the participants used CAM before, while 43% of the participants never used CAM. Among theCAM users, 23% used it for anxiety and stress, 7.6% utilized it for the management of hypertension, 3.3% used it for high cholesterol, 3.1% for obesity, 1.9% for chronic kidney disease, 0.9% used it for diabetes mellitus, 0.5% used it for stroke, and 0.5% used it for heart failure. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that the majority (57%) of the participants have used CAM before. Most of the participants utilized CAM to manage chronic conditions (81.9%).

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.

Perspective Toward Complementary & Alternative Medicines in the Prevention of COVID-19 Infection.

Across the globe, people are seeking integrative and holistic measures to prevent coronavirus (COVID-19) infection in the form of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) with or without conventional medicines. This study was done to know the extent of CAM use for COVID-19 prophylaxis and to know beliefs and attitudes of people related to CAM use in India. A pretested and prevalidated questionnaire was circulated on social media. Participants, who completed the online form and gave voluntary consent, were included. The questionnaire included demographic details and questions related to CAM use, preferences with reasons, preparations used, perceived role of CAM in prevention, immunity boosting and side effects, sources of information, etc. Out of 514 responses, 495 were analyzed. 47.07% of respondents were males and 52.93% were females. 66.9% were using CAM for COVID-19 prophylaxis. The association between age, gender, and profession with CAM use was statistically significant (P < 0.05). 41.1% reported CAM use in the past. 36.6% of CAM users were taking "Kadha" and 33% were using ayurvedic medicines. Other frequently used CAM preparations were chyavanprash, giloy, tulsi, ginger, pepper, cloves, honey, sudarshanghanvati, arsenic-30, lemon juice, cinnamon, steam inhalation, ashwagandha, swasarivati, coronil, and warm saline water gargles. 46.9% of the CAM users were on self-medication and 52.3% preferred CAM over allopathy. Complementary and alternative medicine utilization for COVID-19 prophylaxis is widespread and self-medication is prevalent. As no specific cure is available in conventional systems, people believe in traditional medicines more than conventional, yet confusion exists. There is a need of increasing awareness regarding side effects, drug-drug interactions, and self-medication.

Utilization of complementary and alternative medicine by perimenopausal women in China: a cross-sectional study.

To investigate the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by perimenopausal women and explore factors associated with their preference. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 558 perimenopausal women in Wuhan, China. Online questionnaires were available from December 2021 to April 2022. Instruments used were the International Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire and the Greene Climacteric Scale. The association between scores and participants' sociodemographic characteristics and perimenopausal symptoms was analyzed using multiple linear regression. The overall utilization of CAM by perimenopausal women was 50.4% (281/558). Perimenopausal symptoms affecting the frequency of CAM usage included anxiety (adjusted β = 0.18), somatic (adjusted β = 0.07), and vasomotor symptoms (adjusted β = 0.76), P < 0.05. The most commonly used CAM were massage (37.7%), herbal therapies (19.9%), and dietary supplements (18.2%). Walking (58.6%) was the most popular self-practice therapy. Perimenopausal women consulted Western (38.4%) and Chinese medicine physicians (34.8%) and dentists (36.0%) most frequently. Perimenopausal women experience discomforts during this age-related stage, and their use of CAM to manage symptoms is common. The usage and preferences of these management strategies are worthy of further exploration. There is a need to understand cost-effective and appropriate management interventions to improve the quality of life of perimenopausal women.

Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Adults in Riyadh

The interest in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been well documented. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) studies in CAM are critical for paving the way for intervention efforts to raise awareness. The aim was to measure the knowledge and attitudes of adults and to identify the factors associated with the use and practice of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An observational cross-sectional, community-based, and multi-center study was conducted. After receiving consent, data were collected using a Google form-based online questionnaire. Most of the participants (82.5%) preferred to use CAM in combination with conventional medicine. The most common health problems were menstrual pain (49.5%) and abdominal pain (24.5%). The commonly used CAM remedies in this study were honey (65%) and Zamzam (Believed to be blessed holy water in the Islamic faith) (59.6%). The common causes given by the participants for preferring CAM remedies were because they were natural products (34%) and also avoiding the side effects of drugs (33.5%). Participants younger than 18 were the most supportive age group. Honey was the most chosen modality, contrary to the findings of the Qassim study. It was found that the common cold was the commonest reason for CAM use in the study's population, whereas in the Bahrain study diabetes mellitus was the reason. In conclusion, awareness about CAM was remarkably high among the participants of this study. A high proportion of respondents prefer to use CAM along with traditional medicines. The high proportion use of CAM encountered in this study was remarkable for the health education that addresses both advantages and drawbacks of CAM. Proper scientific research into safety and effectiveness is needed.

Assessment of Knowledge about Traditional Medicine Reveals Overuse as a Potential Risk for Aggravating COVID-19 and Underlying Diseases in Geriatrics and Women's Health in the Saudi Population.

The devastating COVID-19 pandemic has created several gaps in the management of viral infections, leaving biocontainment and supportive measures as the only resorts for control. As such, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of dietary supplementations and herbal medicine for COVID-19. However, serious concerns regarding the efficacy, safety, and recommended doses of these medicines have been raised. In this study, we aimed to assess the population knowledge about alternative medicine administration for COVID-19 and the associated factors. Using a self-administered cross-sectional survey, we analyzed a total of 2042 valid responses. Most of the included participants were females (69.7%), with an overall mean age of 20.8 ± 11.8 years. Most respondents (62.8%) obtained their knowledge from social media while only 16.6% received knowledge from the health care workers. Half of the participants (50.6%) correctly identified all COVID-19 symptoms, where fever (18.5%) and loss of smell and taste (17.1%) were the most frequent answers. On the use of traditional medicines and supplements for COVID-19, 57.8% did not answer, 23.7% admitted regular use, and 18.5% used sometimes. Family members or friends suggested the use of traditional medicines and dietary supplements to 28.0% of the participants while only 14.7% were advised by a nutritionist, physician, pharmacist, nurse, or a health worker. Moreover, seniors and illiterate portions of society had lower knowledge scores and increased utilization of alternative medicine. Marital status, income, and previous COVID-19 were all significant predictors of the awareness and knowledge score. Thus, this study has identified overuse of unregulated medicinal products in the region, which potentially aggravates COVID-19 or other underlying risks of the disease, making clinical management challenging, particularly in geriatrics and women’s health. Regulation of medicinal products and establishment of educational campaigns about the disease have become imperative.

The effect of cancer on traditional, complementary and alternative medicine utilization in Korea: a fixed effect analysis using Korea Health Panel data

BackgroundCancer-related incidence and mortality rates are rapidly increasing worldwide. However, no studies have examined the effect of cancer as a single factor on the use of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (T&CAM). We aimed to determine the effect of cancer occurrence on T&CAM utilization using Korea Health Panel (KHP) data.MethodsWe analyzed longitudinal data (49,380 observations) derived from 12,975 Korean adult participants with complete KHP data from 2011 to 2014 and 2016, and divided them into two groups based on cancer diagnosis. A panel multinomial logit model was used to assess whether the participants used T&CAM or conventional medicine or both in outpatient settings. Additionally, a negative binomial regression model was used to examine the effect of cancer on the number of outpatient visits for T&CAM.ResultsIn total, 25.54% of the study participants in the cancer group used T&CAM, which was higher than that in the non-cancer group (18.37%, p < 0.0001). A panel multinomial logistic regression analysis using KHP data showed that cancer occurrence was significantly more likely to be associated with ‘Using both Korean medicine and conventional medicine’ (Coef. = 0.80, p = 0.017) and ‘Not using Korean medicine but using conventional medicine’ (Coef. = 0.85, p = 0.008) than ‘Not using Korean medicine and conventional medicine.’ A panel negative binomial regression showed a significant effect of cancer on increasing the number of T&CAM outpatient visits (Coef. = 0.11, p = 0.040).ConclusionsOur findings showed that cancer occurrence within an individual led to the simultaneous use of conventional medicine and T&CAM. In addition, the occurrence of cancer significantly increased the number of T&CAM outpatient visits among participants already using T&CAM. It was also found that T&CAM has been utilized more often by the most vulnerable people, such as medical beneficiaries and those with a low level of education.

Concomitant complementary and alternative medicine utilization amongst hypertensive patients on conventional therapy

There has been documented evidence of the fast growing rate of the knowledge and use of Complementary and Alternative medicine (CAM) Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in developed and developing countries and it’s increasingly popularity amongst patients as well as healthcare providers.1 The utilization of CAM products has been attributable to several factors which include fear or resentment of conventional medicine, the perceived negative side effects, over prescribing and failure of conventional medicine to meet the emotional needs of the patients all constituting the “push effects” on the one side. This study better blood pressure control among participants on conventional treatment only compared to those on conventional and CAM. In a resource poor nation as Nigeria where over 90% of health financing is out of pocket, additional financial cost with no additional benefit amounts to waste, not to mention the problem of adverse reactions that concomitant use may cause.