Complementary and alternative medicine use among patients presenting to a pediatric otolaryngology clinic

This study sought to quantify and characterize complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among patients presenting to a pediatric otolaryngology clinic with the aim of increasing CAM use awareness for the practicing pediatric otolaryngologist.

Four hundred thirty-four caregivers of patients presenting to a pediatric otolaryngology clinic were surveyed regarding their child's use of CAMs. Demographic information, perceived benefits, and sources of information regarding CAM was collected. Spearman correlation coefficient was used to assess strength of associations.

Three-hundred and sixty-four caregivers completed the survey (83.9% response rate). The children of 69% of respondents had utilized CAM, and 46% were using CAM at the time of the survey. Higher income and chronic illness in the child were significant predictors of CAM use. The children of older and married parents were more likely to have utilized CAM (non-significant). The most common agents were multivitamins (43%) and vitamin D (32%). Parents whose children used more CAMs were more likely to perceive a benefit.

A significant proportion of pediatric otolaryngology patients utilized CAM in our study population. The most commonly used agents are mostly benign, but others may have more unknown consequences. It is crucial that otolaryngologists ask specifically about these agents, as they potentially interact with prescription medications and some may lead to surgical complications.