Utilization of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among Middle Aged Adults of Bhaktapur

Abstract

Introduction: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is becoming popular in all over the world for treatment of variety of health problems. Mostly middle-aged adults use it as they are at risk of developing non-communicable diseases. This study attempted to assess utilization of CAM among middle aged adults of Bhaktapur. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 107 middle aged adults (40-59 years) of Madhyapur Thimi, Ward 9 using non-probability purposive sampling method. Data was collected through structured interview schedule and analyzed by employing descriptive statistics in SPSS version 16 software. Result: Whole medical system was the most commonly used CAM therapy which included Ayurved (60.7%) followed by Mind-body interventions i.e. Yoga (24.3%) and Meditation (8.4%). CAM therapies like yoga, massage therapy, meditation, reiki and heat therapy were obtained from respective CAM center only whereas ayurvedic and use of herbs were obtained from both centers and locally. All these therapies were mostly used on daily basis. Mostly used CAM therapies for treatment of health problems are Ayurved (100%), herbs (75%), massage (100%) and heat therapy (100%). People also used it for prevention, wellbeing and relaxation purposes. Most CAM users viewed CAM therapy as effective one, and about 94.4% respondents would like to recommend others to use these therapies as well. Conclusion: Study concludes that people use variety of CAM on their daily basis which is very beneficial and effective for preventive and therapeutic purposes of different health conditions. There is a great importance to promote and strengthen the various CAM therapies to promote health of people. Key words: Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Ayurveda, Whole Medical System