Temporal Trends in Use of Complementary Therapies Among Patients With Cardiovascular Disorders

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients frequently utilize complementary and integrative medicine (CIM).
• Understanding current CIM trends and patient motivations is crucial for integrated care.
• Previous studies established a baseline for CIM use in this population in 2009.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence and frequency of CIM therapies in an outpatient cardiovascular disease cohort.
• To compare trends in CIM use over time (2009 vs. 2018).
• To identify specific CIM therapies used for heart-related symptoms and patient interest in future use.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, point-of-care prospective study design.
• Data collected via a 17-question survey from 964 patients at a cardiology outpatient clinic.
• Survey covered demographics, CVD history, current CIM use, and future interest, comparing 2009 and 2018 cohorts.

Main Results:

• Overall CIM use remained high (83.4% in 2009 vs. 81.8% in 2018).
• Dietary supplements were the most common CIM therapy (75% in both years).
• Mind-body therapies (meditation, yoga, tai chi) showed increased use (28.5% in 2018 vs. 23.9% in 2009).
• 41.9% of CIM users reported using therapies for heart-related symptoms; relaxation, stress management, and meditation were top choices.
• Low reporting of CIM use to clinicians (15%) contrasted with high future interest (47%).

Conclusions:

• CIM therapies are widely adopted by cardiovascular disease patients, with significant use for heart-related symptoms.
• A notable increase in mind-body therapy utilization warrants further investigation into efficacy.
• Improved documentation of CIM use in clinical practice and dedicated research are essential.