Study on CAM Use and Hospitalizations in Military Personnel
Author Information
Author(s): Tyler C. Smith, Besa Smith, Margaret A.K. Ryan
Primary Institution: Department of Defense Center for Deployment Health Research, Naval Health Research Center
Hypothesis
Is there an association between the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and subsequent hospitalizations among active-duty military personnel?
Conclusion
The study found that self-administration of two or more CAM therapies is associated with a modest reduction in the risk of hospitalization, while practitioner-assisted CAM does not show a protective effect.
Supporting Evidence
- Self-administering two or more CAM therapies was associated with a 62% reduction in hospitalization risk.
- Practitioner-assisted CAM therapies did not show a significant protective effect against hospitalization.
- Participants who reported very good or excellent health had a lower risk of hospitalization.
Takeaway
Using certain natural therapies can help people stay out of the hospital, but getting help from a professional doesn't seem to make a difference.
Methodology
The study used Cox regression models to analyze the relationship between CAM use and hospitalization among military personnel over a follow-up period.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may lead to over or under-reporting of CAM use.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to a low response rate and potential recall bias in self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily male, aged 18-31, with a majority being married and white.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.38
Confidence Interval
0.17, 0.86
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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