Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicines for Children with Chronic Health Conditions in Lagos, Nigeria
Author Information
Author(s): Oshikoya Kazeem A, Senbanjo Idowu O, Njokanma Olisamedua F, Soipe Ayo
Primary Institution: Lagos State University College of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the prevalence, pattern of use, parental sources of information, perceived benefits, cost, and adverse effects of CAM in children with epilepsy, sickle cell anaemia, and asthma in Lagos, Nigeria.
Conclusion
Parental use of CAMs to treat their children with epilepsy, asthma, and sickle cell anaemia is common in Nigeria.
Supporting Evidence
- 31% of patients used CAM, with 84% currently using it.
- Biological products were the most frequently used CAMs (58%).
- Parents were influenced by relatives, friends, and neighbors in their CAM choices (79%).
- 86% of parents were willing to discuss CAM use with their doctors but were not asked.
Takeaway
Many parents in Nigeria use alternative medicines to help their sick children, but they often don't talk to doctors about it.
Methodology
Parents of children with epilepsy, asthma, or sickle cell anaemia were interviewed using a structured questionnaire.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on parental reporting and the influence of social networks on CAM use.
Limitations
The study did not include a control group of Nigerian children with no illness for comparison.
Participant Demographics
Parents were predominantly female (69%), educated up to secondary school level and beyond (67%), and of low income (59%).
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website