Patterns of CAM Use in Tokyo Outpatients
Author Information
Author(s): Hori Satoshi, Mihaylov Iordan, Vasconcelos Joana C, McCoubrie Malcolm
Primary Institution: Shiseikai Daini Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
Hypothesis
What are the patterns of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among outpatients in Tokyo, Japan?
Conclusion
Half of the patients surveyed were using or had used at least one CAM therapy in the past year, but only 42% reported this use to their physicians.
Supporting Evidence
- 50% of patients reported using at least one CAM therapy in the last 12 months.
- 75% of CAM users found their treatment effective.
- Only 42% of patients disclosed their CAM use to their physicians.
Takeaway
Many people in Tokyo use alternative medicine to feel better, but most don't tell their doctors about it.
Methodology
Data was collected through self-completed questionnaires distributed to patients in outpatient clinics, with statistical analysis performed using chi-square tests.
Potential Biases
Recall bias may have affected the accuracy of reported CAM use.
Limitations
The study population may not be representative of the general population as it only included patients attending a specific hospital.
Participant Demographics
62% female, age range from 18 to 92 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
< 0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 68–81%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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