Complementary and alternative medicine for skin diseases: Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Philippine-based dermatologists.
- Author:
Pardo Iris Alessandra S.
;
Maaño Clarita C.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Complementary Medicine; Alternative Medicine; Practice
- MeSH: Human; Male; Attitude; Complementary Therapies; Dermatologists; Knowledge; Philippines; Physicians; Surveys And Questionnaires
- From: Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society 2013;22(2):26-35
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The ubiquity of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) mirrors patient interest and use. Nonetheless, many physicians are still hesitant to recommend and use CAM.
Objective: To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Philippine-based dermatologists regarding CAM.
METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire. An in-depth interview was conducted among selected respondents.
RESULTS: A total of 148 dermatologists responded. Most had adequate knowledge (58.78%) and a positive attitude about CAM (81.08%). Most respondents reported patient interest in CAM (70.95%) and recommended CAM (87.24%) for dermatologic conditions. Among respondents who recommended CAM, most recommended CAM as a complement to conventional treatment (73.76%) rather than as an alternative. Personal CAM use was reported by 30.41%. A positive attitude about CAM was directly related to increased likelihood of recommending CAM to patients (p=0.00) and to personal use of CAM (p=0.003).
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents generally had a positive attitude about CAM and were open to recommending CAM as a complement to conventional treatment for dermatologic conditions.