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Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in paediatric rheumatology: a European perspective

G Fadanelli1, F Vittadello, G Martini

  • 1Department of Paediatric Rheumatology Unit, University of Padua, Italy.

Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|February 14, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is noted in pediatric rheumatic diseases, particularly among those missing appointments. Parental CAM use strongly correlates with their child's use, warranting physician awareness.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly explored by patients with chronic conditions.
  • Understanding CAM usage patterns in pediatric rheumatic diseases is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and patterns of CAM use in children diagnosed with rheumatic diseases in Italy.
  • To identify factors associated with CAM utilization in this pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • A questionnaire-based survey was administered to parents of children with chronic rheumatic diseases.
  • Two patient groups were analyzed: those actively attending the clinic (Group A) and those with prolonged absence (Group B).

Main Results:

  • 14.7% of pediatric patients (22/150) used CAM, with homeopathy, herbal remedies, vitamins, and minerals being most common.
  • CAM use was significantly higher in patients who had missed regular clinic appointments (24%) compared to regularly attending patients (10%).
  • Parental CAM use was a strong predictor of their child's CAM use (p=0.001), and some patients experienced poor outcomes after discontinuing conventional treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Healthcare providers should inquire about CAM use, especially in pediatric rheumatic disease patients who miss appointments.
  • CAM use in Italian pediatric rheumatic conditions appears less prevalent than reported in North America.
Abstract

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