use of complementary/alternative therapies in children

What is it about?

To determine the prevalence of and factors associated with use of complementary/alternative therapies (CAM) by pediatric patients seeking primary care. A total of 1013 questionnaires were completed. The overall use of CAM was 12%. Factors in families associated with use of CAM were maternal age greater than 31 years, religious affiliation , and use of CAM by the parent/caretaker or.he most common types of CAM used were herbs (41%), prayer healing (37%), high-dose vitamin therapy and other nutritional supplements (34.5%), folk/home remedies (28%), massage therapy (19%), and chiropractic (18%). The majority of CAM users (66%) did not report the use of CAM to their primary care physician. CAM use is significant among children who visit pediatric practices. Pediatricians should inquire about CAM use among patients

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Why is it important?

CAM use is increasing among adults and children in the USA. with prevalence among being 12% nationally. CAM use is significant among children who visit pediatric practices. Pediatricians should inquire about CAM use among patients, particularly those with ongoing medical problems and those with parents/caretakers who use CAM for themselves.