The Effects of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Physiological Systems: Perceptions of Health Sciences and Medical Students

Abstract

Aim: There are limited number of studies regarding complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the knowledge level of the society. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between these methods and physiological systems. Material and Method: This descriptive type of study was conducted along with 1st Grade and 2nd Grade university students attending the departments of healthcare field (n = 710). A questionnaire form prepared along with the support of scientific resources was used as the data collection tool. Results: In our study, it was ascertained that 36.1% of the students had used CAM methods and that 69% of them had requested that educational programs involving CAM methods be organized and/or this subject be included in their curriculums. When the answers given by the students as to the relationship between CAM methods and physiological systems were evaluated, it was determined that they thought massage was effective on the musculoskeletal system (53.8%), herbal remedy was effective on the cardiovascular system (20.9%), special diets were effective on the digestive system (35.2%), herbal remedy was effective on blood-immune system (22.1%), herbal remedy was effective on the urinary system (17.4%), herbal remedy was effective on the endocrine and reproduction system (17.4%), hypnosis was effective on the nervous system (38.9%), and yoga was effective on the respiratory system (21.5%). Conclusions: It was ascertained that the students were interested in complementary and alternative methods of medicine, yet, their knowledge as to the targeted organs and systems affected by these methods was inadequate. Creating resources of scientific data about CAM in order to utilize them in health training including complementary and alternative treatment methods in the educational process of the other departments that provide medical education and train health personnel will help those who will apply CAM methods acquire accurate and reliable information.