[Objective] To clarify the prevalence and aim of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment as well as reasons for choosing this remedy in Japan.
[Methods] We conducted direct interviews with 2, 000 adults (aged 20 years or older) in a stratified two stage sampling in March, 2003.
[Results] Of those interviewd, 71% (1, 420 / 2, 000) responded to the survey of demographics, experience, aim and reasons for choosing acupuncture and/or moxibustion. A total of 7.5% of the population had used Acupuncture and/or Moxibustion during the past 12 months and a total of 26.4% had experienced at least one of these treatment during their lifetime. The most frequent symptoms being treated involved musculoskeletal prob-lems (81.6%), and the most frequent reason for choosing the treatment was the recommendation of family or friends (58.7%).
[Conclusion and Discussion] The prevalence of choosing acupuncture and moxibustion in Japan was higher than that in the U. S. or Europe, which might reflect the history of these methods as popular folk remedies in Japan. The most frequent reason for choosing these remedy might be related to the treatment methods requiring direct contact and stimulation of the body.