A Study Assessing the Knowledge and Attitudes of Adults Towards Selected Alternative Medical Systems in a Specific Urban Community in Guwahati, Assam

Abstract

Introduction: There is growing interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), particularly the Indian systems of medicine. In 2019, World Health Organization (WHO) encouraged country members to support the regional traditional medicines by formulating policies and appropriate regulations inculcating it in preventive, promotive and curative aspect of health. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding selected alternative systems (Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Yoga) among adults of selected urban communities of Guwahati, Assam. Methodology: The study was a descriptive study conducted in selected urban communities of Guwahati, Assam. Data was collected from 150 samples by using convenience sampling technique. Sociodemographic proforma, self administered structured questionnaire on knowledge and self-structured 5 point attitude scale regarding selected Alternative systems of medicine was used to collect data. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The study showed that majority 47(31.3%) had moderate knowledge, regarding selected alternative system of medicine with an average mean score of 11.81 ± 5.717. Overall attitude of adults regarding selected alternative system of medicine was favourable (59.4%). Overall mean of attitude score was 49.90 ± 4.916. Overall result showed there was a positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (p=+0.001). This shows that increase in the knowledge level results in favourable attitude in the adults regarding selected alternative system of medicine. There was significant association between selected demographic variables and knowledge level. There was significant association among age, religion, education, monthly income of family, previous use of alternative system of medicine and attitude level regarding alternative system of medicine. Though majority of the participants have moderate knowledge regarding the alternative systems of medicine, they have a positive attitude towards these systems. Conclusion: Proper knowledge and understanding regarding these systems of medicine will help in promoting and maintaining health and preventing many health issues of the individuals.