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Ethnic differences in population approach and experience regarding complementary-alternative medicine (CAM)
Norberto Krivoy1, Manhal Habib, Zaher S Azzam
1Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel. n_krivoy@rambam.health.gov.il
Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety
|January 13, 2006
Summary
This study surveyed urban Arab individuals using complementary-alternative medicine (CAM). Findings show higher male CAM use in Arab populations and a significant portion of Arab traditionalists seeking CAM.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Alternative Medicine Research
Background:
- Complementary-alternative medicine (CAM) use is prevalent globally.
- Understanding specific population demographics and their engagement with CAM is crucial for healthcare planning.
- This study focuses on characterizing CAM utilization within an urban Arab population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the demographic and belief profiles of an urban Arab population seeking complementary-alternative medicine (CAM).
- To compare CAM usage patterns between Arab and Jewish populations in an urban setting.
- To identify factors influencing CAM preferences and perceptions in these groups.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among outpatient participants selected randomly by ethnical affiliation.
- Questionnaires were administered during routine clinic visits.
- Inclusion criteria were based on responses to initial questions regarding CAM use.
Main Results:
- Males constituted 19% of CAM users in the Arab group, versus 27% of females in the Jewish group.
- Individuals with academic education were 15% (Jewish) and 7% (Arab) among CAM users.
- A higher percentage of Arab individuals (72%) identified as traditionalist-religious-orthodox compared to Jewish individuals (47%).
- More Jewish individuals (28%) preferred a conventional doctor (MD) in CAM practice than Arab individuals (0%).
- Over 30% in both groups favored CAM delivery in medical and nursing schools.
Conclusions:
- Forty percent (Jewish) and 31% (Arab) of individuals had experienced complementary medicine interventions.
- Academic degrees were more prevalent among Jewish CAM users compared to Arab users.
- Traditionalist-religious-orthodox beliefs were strongly associated with CAM seeking in the Arab population (72%).
- Awareness of adverse reactions from CAM therapies was low in both groups (17% Arab, 19% Jewish).
- A majority in both ethnic groups (over 30%) supported the legalization of complementary medicine.