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Im HB, Hwang JH, Choi D, Choi SJ, Han D. Patient-physician communication on herbal medicine use during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e013412. [PMID: 38448037 PMCID: PMC10916170 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lack of transparent communication between patients and physicians regarding the use of herbal medicine (HM) presents a major public health challenge, as inappropriate HM use poses health risks. Considering the widespread use of HM and the risk of adverse events, it is crucial for pregnant women to openly discuss their HM use with healthcare providers. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of pregnant women's HM use and disclosure to healthcare providers and to examine the relationship between HM disclosure and various maternal and child health (MCH) measures. METHODS A systematic search of five databases was conducted for cross-sectional studies on HM use during pregnancy published from 2000 to 2023. Data extraction followed a standardised approach, and Stata V.16.0 was used for data analysis. Also, Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to examine the association between use and disclosure of HM and various MCH indicators. RESULTS This review included 111 studies across 51 countries on the use of HM among pregnant women. Our findings showed that 34.4% of women used HM during pregnancy, driven by the perception that HM is presumably safer and more natural than conventional medical therapies. However, only 27.9% of the HM users disclosed their use to healthcare providers because they considered HM as harmless and were not prompted by the healthcare providers to discuss their self-care practices. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed between HM disclosure and improved MCH outcomes. CONCLUSION Inadequate communication between pregnant women and physicians on HM use highlights a deficiency in the quality of care that may be associated with unfavourable maternal outcomes. Thus, physician engagement in effective and unbiased communication about HM during antenatal care, along with evidence-based guidance on HM use, can help mitigate the potential risks associated with inappropriate HM use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyea Bin Im
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Hye Hwang
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dain Choi
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo Jeung Choi
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dongwoon Han
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
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Al Zhranei RM, Aljohani F, Almutairi S, Abdulhafiz S, Aljohani W. Saudi Healthcare Students' General Practices Applied to Protect Against COVID-19 and Their Beliefs Regarding the Use of Herbal Supplements as a Protection Method. Cureus 2024; 16:e53959. [PMID: 38469023 PMCID: PMC10926936 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the absence of treatment increased the Saudi population's inquietude regarding the virus. Therefore, people were seeking alternative methods to protect themselves from disease's fast transmission, such as hand hygiene, social isolation, and the use of natural and dietary products. AIM The main objective of this study is to assess healthcare students' general practices applied to protect against COVID-19 and their beliefs regarding the use of herbal supplements as a protection method. METHODOLOGY All undergraduate healthcare students were eligible to participate, except pre-professional students. The estimated sample size was 371, which was calculated using Raosoft® software (Raosoft Inc., Seattle, WA). A cross-sectional online survey was distributed among the targeted population. The data were entered in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA) and transferred to be analyzed by JMP software (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). RESULTS A total of 441 healthcare students, who met the inclusion criteria, participated in this study. About 81.41% of the participants reported that they were completely committed to Saudi guidelines regarding preventive measures against COVID-19 transmission. Most of the participants were not using herbal supplements, while 17.1% of them used herbal products or dietary supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants who used herbal and dietary products commonly consumed ginger and vitamins C and D. In addition, a chi-square showed significant differences in gender and specialties regarding the usage of herbal supplements as a protective method against COVID-19 (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The findings of our study exhibit the general practice of herbal products during the COVID-19 pandemic among Saudi healthcare students was low in comparison with their beliefs. In addition, the using of herbal supplements should be evidence-based to guarantee safe consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raid M Al Zhranei
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Research Office, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, SAU
| | - Fenoon Aljohani
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Research Office, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, SAU
| | - Samaher Almutairi
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Research Office, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, SAU
| | - Sawsan Abdulhafiz
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Research Office, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Jeddah, SAU
| | - Wafaa Aljohani
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
- Department of Nursing, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah, SAU
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El Bilali H, Ben Hassen T. Regional Agriculture and Food Systems Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of the Near East and North Africa Region. Foods 2024; 13:297. [PMID: 38254598 PMCID: PMC10815245 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected agri-food systems worldwide. However, while the impacts differed from one country/region to another, the scholarly literature seems to focus on developed countries in the Global North. Consequently, this review scrutinizes the literature on the pandemic's impacts in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. A search on the Web of Science in March 2023 generated 334 documents, of which 151 were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. According to the bibliometric analysis, the most active nations are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon. In general, the coverage of studies is better in the Gulf region than in the less developed countries of North Africa and those suffering from wars (cf. Libya, Syria, and Yemen). Studies generally focus on crop production and the downstream food chain (cf. distribution and consumption). While the pandemic influenced every pillar of food security, this research concentrates on access and utilization. Meanwhile, the lion's share of the literature deals with the pandemic's socio-economic effects, especially those linked to food (in)security and health. The pandemic, which laid bare the agri-food system vulnerabilities, should be seized to foster the transition towards more resilient agri-food systems in the NENA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid El Bilali
- International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM-Bari), Via Ceglie 9, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Ben Hassen
- Program of Policy, Planning, and Development, Department of International Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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Al Balawi AN, El-Alosey AR, Eldiasty JG, Abushalfeh IYH, Almasaude AA, Mosallam SAER, Elmetwalli A. Perceptions of medicinal herbal products during the COVID-19 pandemic period among Saudi patients: a cross-sectional study. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2024; 397:497-506. [PMID: 37477659 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02610-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of health benefits have been demonstrated by medicinal plants, including potent antiviral properties. Additionally, many herbal remedies are known to reduce inflammation and boost immunity, making them an effective preventive measure against viral infections. The study aims to evaluate the perception of medicinal herbs and healthy foods during the pandemic period among Saudi patients. Furthermore, the study seeks to understand how people view medicinal herbs and healthy foods as a means of mitigating the effects of the pandemic and how that perception varies across different demographics. It will also assess the availability of these options in the country and how they have been utilized by the population. A cross-sectional online study was conducted among COVID-19-infected Saudi population at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The perception of the use of medicinal herbs and the effect of healthy foods on the treatment or reduction of symptoms of COVID-19 was evaluated. The efficacy of 23 herbal products was evaluated. A total of 909 participants with COVID-19 infection were surveyed; 86.14% were women, 93.73% were between the ages of 18-60, 51.05% were unemployed, 57.43% had a bachelor's degree, and 90.64% were non-smokers. Study participants used medicinal herbs, slime drinks, and medicinal herb tea to reduce coronavirus infection risk by 67.11, 43.56, and 7.18%, respectively. Gender, education, consuming healthy food, and drinking medicinal herbs displayed significant variation among the studied participants (p < 0.001). The study revealed a prevalence of ginger (62.9%), lemon (51.1%), mint (46.8%), honey (45.7%), and anise (43.0%) as commonly used medicinal herb products. To conclude, the survey found a link between gender, education, consuming healthy foods, and drinking medicinal herbs to reduce infection symptoms among Saudi Arabians. Accordingly, lifestyle choices can have a positive impact on health, even in the face of a challenging environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Nawaf Al Balawi
- Biology Department, University College of Haql, "University of Tabuk", Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa R El-Alosey
- Department of Mathematics, College of Haql, "University of Tabuk", Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jayda G Eldiasty
- Biology Department, University College of Haql, "University of Tabuk", Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ismail Y H Abushalfeh
- Department of Islamic Studies, College of Haql, "University of Tabuk", Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Angod Ahmed Almasaude
- Biology Department, University College of Haql, "University of Tabuk", Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Alaa Elmetwalli
- Department of Clinical Trial Research Unit and Drug Discovery, Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt.
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Nawaiseh HK, Abdelrahim DN, Al-Domi H, Al-Assaf MS, Al-Nawaiseh FK. The impact of vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc supplements on immune status among Jordanian adults during COVID-19: cross-sectional study findings. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2251. [PMID: 37968651 PMCID: PMC10652433 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17172-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity. The aims of the current study were to assess the immune status of a group of Jordanian adults and to evaluate the association between vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc consumption and the Immune Status during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A total of 615 adults Jordanian participants were enrolled in this study, an online- based cross sectional survey was used as a tool for this study. Data was collected by distributing the questionnaire form link through social media platforms. The association between ISQ score and the supplement intake pattern (daily, weekly, monthly and rarely) was assessed using multinomial logistic regression analysis, described as Odds ratio and 95% CI. RESULTS Data have indicated that the majority of the participants did not take Vitamin D supplements during the pandemic (46.3%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.777; P < 0.05). Data showed that the majority of participants used vitamin C supplementation (49.4%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.797; P < 0.05). Data also have indicated that the majority of the participants did not increase their consumption of Zinc during the COVID-19 pandemic (55.6%). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D, and vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ. Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala K Nawaiseh
- Department of nutrition and food technology, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, 11942, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Dana N Abdelrahim
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, Sharjah University, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hayder Al-Domi
- Department of nutrition and food technology, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, 11942, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad S Al-Assaf
- Department of Ears, Nose and Throat, King Hussein Medical Centre (KHMC), Amman, Jordan
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Sandeep, Subba R, Mondal AC. Does COVID-19 Trigger the Risk for the Development of Parkinson's Disease? Therapeutic Potential of Vitamin C. Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s12035-023-03756-3. [PMID: 37957424 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03756-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was proclaimed a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. There is mounting evidence that older patients with multimorbidity are more susceptible to COVID-19 complications than are younger, healthy people. Having neuroinvasive potential, SARS-CoV-2 infection may increase susceptibility toward the development of Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with extensive motor deficits. PD is characterized by the aggregation of α-synuclein in the form of Lewy bodies and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the dorsal striatum and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of the nigrostriatal pathway in the brain. Increasing reports suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection is linked with the worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms with high rates of hospitalization and mortality in PD patients. Common pathological changes in both diseases involve oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. COVID-19 exacerbates the damage ensuing from the dysregulation of those processes, furthering neurological complications, and increasing the severity of PD symptomatology. Phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Vitamin C supplementation is found to ameliorate the common pathological changes in both diseases to some extent. This review aims to present the available evidence on the association between COVID-19 and PD, and discusses the therapeutic potential of vitamin C for its better management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Rhea Subba
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Amal Chandra Mondal
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
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Wolf M, Emberger-Klein A, Menrad K. Usage of Natural Health Products (NHPs) for respiratory diseases: user characteristics and NHP-Consumption behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic in Germany. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:372. [PMID: 37865731 PMCID: PMC10589963 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04180-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory diseases (RD) can challenge healthcare systems around the globe. Natural health products (NHPs) are popular complementary and alternative medicine options for health issues concerning non-fatal RD. Little is known about the characteristics of the users of RD-NHPs and about their NHP consumption behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic in Germany. METHODS A representative online survey was conducted in Germany in 2022. 1707 participants were classified based on having used NHPs for RD within the previous 12 months, having used NHPs but not for RD within the previous 12 months and not having used NHPs. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods as well as a multinomial logistic regression model. RESULTS Users of RD-NHPs within the previous 12 months were more likely to be employed and to consult pharmacists more often for non-fatal health issues than individuals who did not take RD-NHPs. RD-NHP users were more likely to suffer from a Covid-19 infection and to have children living in the same household than other NHP users. Compared to non-NHP users, RD-NHP users were more likely to be female, highly educated and have stronger openness-to-change value orientations. Vaccination-related behavior was no indicator of RD-NHP usage. Most RD-NHP users took NHPs in self-medication. Few reported informing their practitioner about their self-medication. Drugstores were the most visited supply source for NHPs during the pandemic, followed by pharmacies. Common information sources regarding NHPs were the products themselves and pharmacists. CONCLUSION This study emphasized the important role of NHPs as a popular prevention and treatment option for RD. RD-NHPs were more likely used by individuals who were employed, who suffered from a RD and who consult pharmacists for non-fatal health issues. The importance of product information and pharmacies as information sources should be considered to make communication strategies about safe self-medication options with RD-NHPs more effective, which could help to reduce the burden of health facilities regarding non-fatal RD. To improve and develop future pandemic-control strategies, health professionals and policy makers should consider NHP usage behavior and provide critical information about chances and risks of self-medicated NHP consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Wolf
- Department of Marketing and Management of Biogenic Resources, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Hochschule Weihenstephan-Triesdorf (University of Applied Sciences), Technical University of Munich, Am Essigberg 3, D-94315, Straubing, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Agnes Emberger-Klein
- Department of Marketing and Management of Biogenic Resources, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Hochschule Weihenstephan-Triesdorf (University of Applied Sciences), Technical University of Munich, Am Essigberg 3, D-94315, Straubing, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Klaus Menrad
- Department of Marketing and Management of Biogenic Resources, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Hochschule Weihenstephan-Triesdorf (University of Applied Sciences), Technical University of Munich, Am Essigberg 3, D-94315, Straubing, Bavaria, Germany.
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Güngör Ö, Baykal H. Attitudes toward herbal medicine for COVID-19 in healthcare workers: A cross-sectional observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35176. [PMID: 37746972 PMCID: PMC10519507 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has adversely affected working life all over the world, and the employees with the highest risk of transmission have been those in the health sector. Since there are currently no effective treatments for COVID-19, there have been numerous attempts to find alternative treatments for both the spread of the infection and its treatment. These efforts have included the use of herbal extracts to boost immunity and reduce the likelihood of contracting the infection. This study explored the attitudes of healthcare workers toward the consumption of COVID-19 herbal medicine (HM) products. This is an online, cross-sectional observational study. In total, 1335 participants were reached. It was observed that 722 (54%) of them preferred herbal treatments during the pandemic period. The attitudes of HM toward 327 (45.3%) healthcare workers and 395 (54.7%) general population participants were examined. Both groups had high rates of use of HM as a COVID-19 preventive measure (68.8 percent and 67.1 percent, respectively). While its use was higher among healthcare workers during infection (OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.32-3.03), its use was higher in the non-healthcare group for post-COVID problems (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.35-0.74). The opinion of healthcare professionals was that HM was more efficient (OR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.19-21.15). All participants' main incentive to utilize HM was family advice (n = 194, 26.9%). A total of 90 (12.4%) participants reported side effects. Vomiting-nausea were the most typical adverse effects (38.9%). The herb most frequently utilized was ginger (54%). Healthcare workers use HM at rates that are the same as those of the general population. Both its use during infections and the idea that it is effective are more common among healthcare professionals than in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ömür Güngör
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hüsnü Baykal
- Department of Chest Disease, Ankara Ataturk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital, Keçiören/Ankara, Turkey
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Çürük GN, Karadağ S, Özgül E. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods Used by Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Holist Nurs Pract 2023; 37:260-267. [PMID: 37595118 DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to determine complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods used by older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample for this descriptive study comprised 415 adults older than 65 years who completed an online questionnaire between August and October 2020. The study used descriptive statistical methods and a χ2 test for the statistical analysis of data. In the study, 55.4% of participants had used one or more CAM methods during the pandemic. The most frequently used methods were vitamin and mineral supplements (48.5%) and herbal products (37.2%). The study determined that 43.1% of participants did not inform their health care professionals of the method they had used. It is possible that the use of CAM methods by older adults during the pandemic and the decrease in the frequency of seeking care at health care institutions could complicate the management of health problems related to the use of CAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülsüm Nihal Çürük
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey (Dr Çürük and Ms Özgül); and Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (Dr Karadağ)
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Ghodsi D, Nikooyeh B, Amini M, Rabiei S, Doustmohammadian A, Abdollahi Z, Minaie M, Sadeghi F, Clark CCT, Neyestani TR, Rasekhi H. Dietary Supplement Use among Iranian Households during COVID-19 Epidemic Lockdown: Less Access in Those Who May Need More National Food and Nutrition Surveillance. Int J Prev Med 2023; 14:99. [PMID: 37854989 PMCID: PMC10580211 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_207_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic elicited the general population to use various dietary supplements (DSs) and nutraceuticals as a protective means against the disease. The present study aimed to evaluate changes and certain determinants of DS intake during the COVID-19 lockdown among Iranian households. Methods This nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted from April 4 to April 25, 2020, during which Iran was in lockdown. To collect data, a web-based electronic self-administered questionnaire was created. The data were compared among provinces based on their food security situations. Results A total of 21,290 households were included in the analyses. Approximately 27% of the households were using DSs after the epidemic. The most common DSs used were vitamin D (42%) and vitamin C (20%), followed by multi-vitamin (16%), zinc (9%), omega-3 (6%), vitamin A (4%), and probiotics (3%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that DS intake was directly associated with the household income but inversely with household size and the food security status of the provinces. DS intake was positively associated with the presence of high-risk persons in the households, the education of the households' head, and the presence of a person with a history of COVID-19 within the household. Conclusions During epidemic lockdown, DS use was remarkably increased among the Iranian households. Apart from the debatable usefulness of DSs against COVID-19, the inverse association of DS use with a household's income and provincial food security well indicates inequity in accessibility to DS. Actions to improve the nutritional status of the under-privileged populations including targeted supplementation are strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delaram Ghodsi
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Nikooyeh
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Amini
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Rabiei
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Doustmohammadian
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center (GILDRC), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Abdollahi
- Community Nutrition Office, Deputy of Health, Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Minaie
- Community Nutrition Office, Deputy of Health, Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Sadeghi
- Community Nutrition Office, Deputy of Health, Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Cain C. T. Clark
- Centre for Intelligent Healthcare, Coventry University, Coventry, CV1 5FB, U. K
| | - Tirang R. Neyestani
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Rasekhi
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Torović L, Vojvodić S, Lukić D, Srđenović Čonić B, Bijelović S. Safety Assessment of Herbal Food Supplements: Elemental Profiling and Associated Risk. Foods 2023; 12:2746. [PMID: 37509838 PMCID: PMC10379194 DOI: 10.3390/foods12142746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased usage of herbal food supplements by both the paediatric and adult populations prompted a health risk assessment study. The elemental profiles of 52 supplements collected in Serbia were obtained using ICP-MS. The calculated contribution to permitted daily exposure was in compliance with the guidelines for elemental impurities: up to 46.8% for Pb (infants), 67.2% for Cu (toddlers), 6.8% for As (preschool children), and 8.0% for Hg (adolescents). Hazard quotients indicated high exposure of toddlers to Cu (100.9%) and Zn (112.7%), although by only one supplement, for which hazard indices ranged from 229 to 105% (aligning from toddlers to adolescents). Based on the margin of exposure, As and Pb were not of safety concern. Conversely, the proportion of supplements exceeding the acceptable level of lifetime cancer risk due to As exposure varied from 41.9% in adolescents to 54.3% in adults. Simultaneous use of multiple supplements over a prolonged period of time could further deepen health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljilja Torović
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Center for Medical and Pharmaceutical Investigations and Quality Control, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, Futoška 121, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Slađana Vojvodić
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Danijela Lukić
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, Futoška 121, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Branislava Srđenović Čonić
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Center for Medical and Pharmaceutical Investigations and Quality Control, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Sanja Bijelović
- Institute of Public Health of Vojvodina, Futoška 121, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
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Jin X, Xu L, Lu C, Xue X, Liu X, Zhou Y, Hu X, Liu J, Pei X. Traditional Chinese medicine for the COVID-19 pandemic: An online cross-sectional survey among health care workers. Eur J Integr Med 2023; 61:102273. [PMID: 38620124 PMCID: PMC10293119 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2023.102273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Background : During the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, health care workers (HCWs) have faced a heightened risk of infection. Preventative measures are critical to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and protect HCWs. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been recommended to prevent and treat COVID-19 in China. We conducted this survey to investigate the use of infection control behaviors, preventative and therapeutic interventions, and outcomes among HCWs during the surge of Omicron variant infections to explore the association of preventative measures with outcomes and to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of TCM as a preventative measure. Methods : The questionnaire consisted of 23 sections with 154 questions intended for HCWs. The targeted respondents comprised all HCWs from Xiamen Hospital Affiliated of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine. The recruitment process was open between March 17 and June 1, 2022. Chi-square test was used to estimate the relationship between prevention and outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate factors influencing the use of TCM as a preventative measure. Results : Among the 1122 participants who completed the questionnaire, 79.71% took preventative measures, including TCM (56.21%), physical activities (52.37%) and food supplements (26.99%). Xiamen preventative formula (a government-approved fixed prescription) (45.22%) and Lianhua Qingwen preparations (18.95%) were the most commonly used Chinese medicines. Thirty-six participants reported flu-like symptoms and three were diagnosed with COVID-19. Flu-like symptoms were not associated with prevention, vaccination, or TCM. Frontline working experience (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.46-0.80), good knowledge of post-COVID-19 syndrome (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.39-0.84), Western medicine qualifications (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.51-3.86), nurses (OR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.21-2.40), and medical technicians (OR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.25-4.10) were associated with the willingness of using TCM as a preventative measure. Conclusion : Complementary medicine, especially TCM, could be used for COVID-19 prevention. Knowledge of COVID-19 may prompt people to use TCM to prevent COVID-19. Multicenter studies and prospective cohort follow-up studies are needed to provide further insights into the use of TCM for COVID-19 management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Jin
- Centre for Evidence-based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
- Xiamen Hospital Affiliated of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, 361001, China
| | - Leqin Xu
- Xiamen Hospital Affiliated of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, 361001, China
| | - Chunli Lu
- Centre for Evidence-based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
- Institute of Chinese medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xue Xue
- The First Clinical Medical School, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, 430074, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuehan Liu
- Centre for Evidence-based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yuzhen Zhou
- Xiamen Hospital Affiliated of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, 361001, China
| | - Xiaoyang Hu
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Aldermoor Health Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jianping Liu
- Centre for Evidence-based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaohua Pei
- Xiamen Hospital Affiliated of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Xiamen, 361001, China
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Ababneh MA, Halloush S, Altawalbeh S, Mardini A. Knowledge and attitudes towards herbal and dietary products use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clin Nutr Open Sci 2023; 49:118-129. [PMID: 37266308 PMCID: PMC10200713 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutos.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aim The outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has made a global public health disaster. Little information is known about how to combat this infection. Therefore, preventive health measures that can reduce the severity and progression of this disease are needed. Some dietary supplements and herbal products have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, it may be used to enhance immunity and reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection. In this study, we reviewed selected supplements that may play a key role in the prevention and management of COVID-19 (e.g. vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc), and that was to determine the level of knowledge and attitudes toward them by the adult population in Jordan. Methodology This is a cross-sectional study design, in which an online questionnaire was conducted and distributed on different social media websites. People who are above 18 years old were included in this study. Demographic, Attitudes, and knowledge data were collected and then analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 23). Results In this study, (62.8%) of participants became more concerned with their health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and (49.2%) of them used dietary and herbal supplements to protect themselves from the coronavirus. In addition, (18.5%) of participants reported that they had used these supplements for a while and then stopped. Conclusion The findings of our study provided evidence that the general population in Jordan has a reasonable level of knowledge and acceptance of dietary and herbal supplements used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mera A Ababneh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Shatha Halloush
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Shoroq Altawalbeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Afrah Mardini
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Koparal M, Ege M. Dietary supplements used by otolaryngology patients in Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey. Eur J Integr Med 2023; 60:102249. [PMID: 37163158 PMCID: PMC10077764 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2023.102249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated the characteristics of dietary supplement (DS) use of patients who attended the otolaryngology clinic at a university training and research hospital in Turkey during the pandemic, including patients who had experienced Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2021. 277 literate patients aged ≥ 18 years who attended the otolaryngology clinic were enrolled. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, as well as data on DS use during the pandemic. The questionnaire was administered in a face-to-face setting by a single researcher. Results Approximately half of the participants (50.18%) took DSs during the pandemic and 67.18% of those who experienced COVID-19 infection used DSs during their illness. The most commonly used supplements were vitamin C (43.16%) and D (33.09%), along with herbal supplements such as lemon (54.68%), garlic (46.76%), ginger (46.04%), and thyme (43.88%). In total, 85.23% of the patients primarily used DSs to enhance their immunity, while 32.95% used them to prevent cough, and 26.14% to improve breathing. The majority of the patients (85.23%) felt benefit from DSs. Typically, the patients obtained information about DSs from doctors (32.37%) or friends and relatives (29.49%), and most of them used the supplements without first consulting a doctor (63.64%). Conclusion DSs were commonly used by otolaryngology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly to enhance immunity. Although the majority of patients reportedly benefited from these products, most of them did not inform their physicians that they were using them and often obtained information from unofficial sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehtap Koparal
- Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | - Miray Ege
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
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Almuqbil M, Alshaikh S, Alrumayh N, Alnahdi F, Fallatah E, Almutairi S, Imran M, Kamal M, Almehmadi M, Alsaiari AA, Alqarni WAA, Alasmari AM, Alwarthan S, Rabaan AA, Almadani ME, Asdaq SMB. Role of Natural Products in the Management of COVID-19: A Saudi Arabian Perspective. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11111584. [PMID: 37297724 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11111584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented circumstance that has never previously occurred. This has caused the Saudi Arabian people to recognize the necessity of preventive measures and explore alternative systems, such as using natural products (NPs), for treating their infection. Therefore, the specific objectives of this study were to explore the factors that influence the selection of NPs for COVID-19 management and to know the outcome of using NPs in COVID-19 infection management. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia between February and April 2022. The validated pretested questionnaire was distributed among different regions of the country via a purposive snowball sampling procedure. Both descriptive statistics and stepwise regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the parameters related to the use of medicinal plants for the prevention of COVID-19 and the treatment of respiratory symptoms during the pandemic. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Of the 677 participants, 65% reported using NPs for themselves or family members during COVID-19. Utilizing NPs is always given priority by a significant (p < 0.001) percentage of survey respondents. Further, a highly significant (p < 0.001) percentage of participants felt that using NPs reduced their COVID-19 symptoms without having any remarkable (p < 0.001) adverse effects. Family and friends (59%) were the most frequent sources of information about utilizing NPs, followed by personal experience (41%). Honey (62.7%) and ginger (53.8%) were the most utilized NP among participants. Moreover, black seeds, garlic and turmeric were used by 40.5%, 37.7% and 26.3% of the surveyors, respectively. Those who used NPs before COVID-19 were 72.9% more likely to use them during COVID-19. NPs are more likely to be used by 75% of people who live in the central part of the country and whose families prefer it. This is true even if other factors are considered, such as the practice of using NPs along with traditional therapies and the fact that some participants' families prefer it. Our findings show that NPs were commonly used to treat COVID-19 infection among Saudi Arabian residents. Close friends and family members mainly encouraged the use of NPs. Overall, the use of NPs was high among those who participated in our study; such practices are strongly impacted by society. It is essential to promote extensive studies to improve the recognition and accessibility of these products. Authorities should also educate the people about the benefits and risks of using commonly used NPs, especially those reported in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Almuqbil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Alshaikh
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nura Alrumayh
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fay Alnahdi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eiman Fallatah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahad Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Imran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mehnaz Kamal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazen Almehmadi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahad Amer Alsaiari
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Sara Alwarthan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 31311, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur 22610, Pakistan
| | - Moneer E Almadani
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
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Kalkuz Ş, Göktaş Z. Evaluation of dietary supplementation and/or herbal food consumption habits and common beliefs on their effectiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33883. [PMID: 37233414 PMCID: PMC10219646 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2020, COVID-19 has affected the entire world. Various dietary supplements/herbal foods are recommended to protect against and/or treat COVID-19 through social media and conventional media platforms, although their effects are unproven. Hence, this study aimed to investigate dietary supplementation and/or herbal food consumption habits intended to protect against and/or treat COVID-19, as well as common thoughts and beliefs about these products during the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional study was conducted as an online survey via the "SurveyMonkey" platform between June and December 2021. Participants were invited to participate in the study via social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) and the questionnaire was administered online. A total of 1767 participants were confirmed to be eligible. Overall, 35.3% used dietary supplements/herbal foods for protection against COVID-19 and 67.1% used them for treatment. Most believed that certain dietary supplements/herbal foods have an effect on the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. According to the COVID-19 infection status, participants differed in their opinions regarding the protective effects of vitamin D supplementation against COVID-19 (P = .02). It is important to raise public awareness of this issue and to avoid the unnecessary use of dietary supplements before sufficient evidence has been presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şeyma Kalkuz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kirklareli University, Kirklareli, Turkey
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Göktaş
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Mohd Shahezwan Abd Wahab, Humaira’ Hamdi, Aida Azlina Ali, Mahmathi Karuppannan, Muhammad Harith Zulkifli, Sandra Maniam, Carolina Oi Lam Ung. The use of herbal and dietary supplements for COVID-19 prevention: a survey among the public in a Malaysian suburban town. J Herb Med 2023:100650. [PMID: 36998482 PMCID: PMC10032060 DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2023.100650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may lead people to seek preventative measures. The use of herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) may have become prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify the prevalence, predictors, and patterns of HDS use for COVID-19 prevention in a sample of the general public in a suburban town in Malaysia. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted between May and June 2021 involving adults ≥ 18 years old. Data on the self-reported use of HDS for COVID-19 prevention were collected. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the predictors of HDS use. Results Overall, 41.9% (168/401) reported using HDS to prevent COVID-19. Multivariate analysis showed that HDS users were more likely to be individuals ≥ 40 years old (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.774, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.016 – 3.098), and to have had a history of HDS use prior to the pandemic (aOR = 19.378, 95% CI = 5.901 – 63.639). Most HDS users referred to social media or websites (66.7%, 112/168) for HDS information. Approximately half of them had consulted either pharmacists or doctors about their HDS use. Conclusion HDS use to prevent COVID-19 was common among the respondents. Several issues - such as the concurrent use of HDS with conventional medications, the use of unreliable sources of information, and the lack of consultation with healthcare providers (HCPs) - indicate that HCPs should be more proactive in their consultative and information-providing roles regarding HDS use.
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Soltani A, Jaam M, Nazar Z, Stewart D, Shaito A. Attitudes and beliefs regarding the use of herbs and supplementary medications with COVID-19: A systematic review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:343-55. [PMID: 36402712 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM There is growing interest in using herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19, evidenced by multiple reports exploring their effectiveness and safety. From a health psychology perspective, the desire to use herbs and supplementary medications to prevent and/or treat COVID-19 is a health behavior which is attributed to attitudes and beliefs. This systematic review critically appraised and synthesized the data from studies investigating these attitudes and beliefs. METHODS EMBASE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Cochrane (library), and WebOfScience were searched from inception to December 13, 2021 for studies investigating attitudes and beliefs on the use of herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19. RESULTS A total of 17 articles were identified for inclusion. All except one were of cross-sectional design. Participants across most studies had a positive attitude towards using herbs and supplementary medications. They believed that herbs and supplementary medications were effective and were confident in their value in preventing and/or treating COVID-19 symptoms. The majority of included studies had significant flaws in study design and reporting, including inconsistent definitions of herbs and supplementary medications, a lack of theoretical models and conceptual frameworks underpinning the study of beliefs and attitudes, in addition to methodological issues of robustness affecting the validity and reliability of data. CONCLUSION The use of herbs and supplementary medicines to prevent and/or treat COVID-19 could well be driven by a positive attitude stemming from beliefs of effectiveness and safety. There is a need for well-designed studies on attitudes and beliefs that are driven by health behavior theories to permit generalizability of findings and establish more conclusive relationships between beliefs, attitudes and the decision to use herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19.
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Hafiz NM, El-Readi MZ, Esheba G, Althubiti M, Ayoub N, Alzahrani AR, Al-Ghamdi SS, Eid SY. The use of the nutritional supplements during the covid-19 outbreak in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study. Complement Ther Med 2023; 72:102917. [PMID: 36632904 PMCID: PMC9827747 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 causes moderate to severe illness and is spreading globally. During a pandemic, vitamins and minerals are vital to health. Therefore, the prevalence and epidemiology of supplement use in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic must be known. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia using an online survey. The study was conducted from June to March 2022 on both adults and children. The link to the survey was shared on social media platforms. The survey included questions on participants' demographics, vaccination status, supplements they used, and side effects of supplements. Participation in this study was optional, and there was no obligation to participate. There was a declaration about the aim of the study and different objectives before starting the survey. RESULTS The present study reported that most of the participants reported that they used vitamin C (64.6 %), zinc (51.9 %), multivitamins (46.1 %), black seeds (26.7 %), garlic (Allium sativum) (15.4 %), omega-3 (22.1 %), vitamin D (22.2 %), echinacea (10.1 %), manuka honey (26.0 %), curcumin (13.6 %), ginger (22.5 %), royal jelly (12.9 %), and propolis (7.5 %) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period. These supplements were used more frequently by subjects during the pandemic than before. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The respondents' risk of these supplements' use may partially reflect the public's behavioral response during a pandemic. Future studies can document the health beliefs and motivations of nutritional supplement users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Mohammed Hafiz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Saudi Toxicology Society, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; Nahdi Medical Company, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Zaki El-Readi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assuit 71524, Egypt.
| | - Ghada Esheba
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Mohammad Althubiti
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahla Ayoub
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Saudi Toxicology Society, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah R Alzahrani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Saudi Toxicology Society, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed S Al-Ghamdi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia; Saudi Toxicology Society, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Safaa Yehia Eid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al Abdeyah, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia.
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Latifi M, Maraki F, Parvaresh MJ, Zarei M, Allabakhshian L. The use of medicinal plants in the prevention of COVID-19 using the Health Belief Model: A survey based on the Iranian population. J Educ Health Promot 2023; 12:54. [PMID: 37113441 PMCID: PMC10127463 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_326_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the preventive measures have increased, such as focusing on the use of medicinal plants in most communities, including Iran. The purpose of this study was to identify the knowledge, attitude, and performance of individuals toward the use of medicinal plants and to identify the predictors of the use of medicinal plants in the prevention of COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS This descriptive-analytical study (February-April 2021) was performed on 3840 Iranian men and women aged 20-70 years selected as a multi-stage cluster study. At the first stage, all provinces were divided into five regions: North, South, East, West, and Center. In the second stage, a provincial center and a city were randomly selected from each region (North: Sari, Babol; South: Bushehr, Bandar Genaveh; East: Mashhad, Sabzevar; West: Hamedan, Toisarkan; Center: Yazd, Ardakan). Data were collected by a researcher-made scale based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Data analysis was performed applying Pearson correlation coefficient, logistic regression, and linear regression. RESULTS The results showed that people have relatively high knowledge and positive attitude toward the use of medicinal plants in prevention of COVID-19. The most important reason for positive attitude was the perceived benefits with the mean of 75.06%. Also, half of the people had poor performance. Correlation coefficient showed that the use of medicinal plants with perceived sensitivity (p = 0.000, r = 0.3), perceived benefits (p = 0.012, r = 0.126), perceived barriers (p = 0.000, r = 0.179), and perceived self-efficacy (p = 0.000, r = 0.305) had a significant correlation. The strongest correlation between perceived self-efficacy was observed with the use of herbs in prevention of COVID-19. The HBM constructs can predict 26% of the variance for the use of medicinal plants in the prevention of COVID-19, among which perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.230) was the most powerful predictor. CONCLUSION Based on the results, the predictive role of self-efficacy constructs for the use of medicinal plants in prevention of COVID-19 has been confirmed according to the HBM. Therefore, methods of increasing self-efficacy such as training programs and providing appropriate intervention models can be used not only as promoters of using medicinal plants in prevention of COVID-19 but also for improving people's performance in the proper use of medicinal plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoomeh Latifi
- Social Determinants in Health Promotion Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Maraki
- Department of Operating Room, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadreza Zarei
- Department of Operating Room, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Leili Allabakhshian
- Information Sciences and Knowledge Studies, Vice-Chancellery for Research and Technology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Arora I, White S, Mathews R. Global Dietary and Herbal Supplement Use during COVID-19-A Scoping Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030771. [PMID: 36771480 PMCID: PMC9920285 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of cure and the intensity of the global spread raised a common awareness of health. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize dietary supplement use globally during first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. A systematic search was conducted in December 2021 following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, ERIC, and Scopus databases were searched, and 956 results were screened for eligibility. Fourteen cross-sectional studies from 11 countries and 3 continents were examined. All studies were large population surveys investigating healthy eating and supplement use during COVID-19. Vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc and multivitamins were the most widely reported, as well as natural/herbal products such as ginger and honey. The most common reason cited for supplements use was to strengthen immune system and to prevent infection of COVID-19. These studies reported that populations are relying on healthcare providers, family, friends, and social media to learn about supplement use. Future studies on the treatment of COVID-19 should include more evidence for supplement use.
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Sabir Z, Asmara A, Dehraj S, Raja MAZ, Altamirano GC, Salahshour S, Sadat R, Ali MR. A mathematical model of coronavirus transmission by using the heuristic computing neural networks. Eng Anal Bound Elem 2023; 146:473-482. [PMID: 36339085 PMCID: PMC9618448 DOI: 10.1016/j.enganabound.2022.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the nonlinear mathematical model of COVID-19 is investigated by stochastic solver using the scaled conjugate gradient neural networks (SCGNNs). The nonlinear mathematical model of COVID-19 is represented by coupled system of ordinary differential equations and is studied for three different cases of initial conditions with suitable parametric values. This model is studied subject to seven class of human population N(t) and individuals are categorized as: susceptible S(t), exposed E(t), quarantined Q(t), asymptotically diseased IA (t), symptomatic diseased IS (t) and finally the persons removed from COVID-19 and are denoted by R(t). The stochastic numerical computing SCGNNs approach will be used to examine the numerical performance of nonlinear mathematical model of COVID-19. The stochastic SCGNNs approach is based on three factors by using procedure of verification, sample statistics, testing and training. For this purpose, large portion of data is considered, i.e., 70%, 16%, 14% for training, testing and validation, respectively. The efficiency, reliability and authenticity of stochastic numerical SCGNNs approach are analysed graphically in terms of error histograms, mean square error, correlation, regression and finally further endorsed by graphical illustrations for absolute errors in the range of 10-05 to 10-07 for each scenario of the system model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulqurnain Sabir
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - Adi Asmara
- Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Mathematics Study Program, Universitas Muhammadiyah Bengkulu, Bengkulu, Indonesia
| | - Sanaullah Dehraj
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science and Technology, 67480 Nawabshah, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Zahoor Raja
- Future Technology Research Center, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, 123 University Road, Section 3, Douliou, Yunlin 64002, Taiwan
| | | | - Soheil Salahshour
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - R Sadat
- Department of Mathematics, Zagazig Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed R Ali
- Center of Research, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Future University in Egypt New Cairo, 11835, Egypt
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Suaifan GARY, Abu-Odeh AM, Shehadeh MB, Darwish RM, Shahwan M, Jbara FA. Knowledge, practice and attitude associated with SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant among adults in Jordan. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278243. [PMID: 36477269 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 infection is a global pandemic health emergency. This contagious disease was caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus‑2 (SARS‑CoV-2) which is mutating over time. In 2021, the Delta variant became the most dominant transmissible form. During the crisis, human practice and knowledge were critical in the overall efforts to encompass the outbreak. A cross-sectional, web-based approach was conducted among adults in Jordan to quantify knowledge, attitude, and practices towards SARS-CoV-2 (Delta variant). This research was carried out between 15th April and 15th of May 2021. The study questionnaire consisted of four sections including the participant's demographics, knowledge, practices and attitude. Comparative evaluation of responses was accomplished using a scoring system. Respondents who scored above the mean score (60%) on the item measured were categorized as knowledgeable, having a positive attitude, and good practices. Participants were allocated to one of the three groups; medical, non-medical and others (unemployed and housewives). Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 software. A variance test to assess the statistical difference between groups was used. Pearson's chi-squared test was applied to compare the variables and identify significant predictors. Of the participants, 308 (66%) were in the age group of 18-25yrs, 392 (84.1%) females, 120 (25.8%) employed and 346 (74.2%) unemployed. The principle source of knowledge was social media (291, 62.4%). Interestingly, participants had adequate overall knowledge. The mean knowledge score was 22.6 (± 0.19), 20.6 (± 0.19), and 21.3 (± 0.18) for the medical, the non-medical and the others group, respectively. Also, participants showed a positive attitude and good practices towards SARS-CoV-2 (Delta variant). The mean practice score for medical, the non-medical and the others groups was 7.35 (± 0.25), 7.38 (± 0.24), 7.35 (± 0.24) and the mean attitude score was 10.8 (± 0.16), 9.4 (± 0.21), 9.5 (± 0.22), respectively. The studied groups generally had good knowledge, positive attitudes and good practices about SARS-CoV-2 (Delta variant). This was expected due to the authorities' successful management of the pandemic and the high educational level of the Jordanian society, bearing in mind the economic and social impact of COVID-19 disease.
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Abstract
The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be correlated with the risk of liver injury development. An increasing number of studies indicate that degrees of hepatotoxicity have been associated with using some medications in the management of COVID-19 patients. However, limited studies have systematically investigated the evidence of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in COVID-19 patients. An increasing number of studies indicate that degrees of hepatotoxicity have been associated with using some of these medications in the management of COVID-19 patients. Significantly, it was relieved after the cessation of these agents. However, to our knowledge, no studies have systematically investigated the evidence of DILI in COVID-19 patients. In this review, we discussed the association between hepatotoxicity in COVID-19 patients and the drugs used in these patients and possible mechanisms of hepatotoxicity. The currently available evidence on the association of different therapeutic agents with hepatotoxicity in COVID-19 patient was systematically reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Soumya Vij
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
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Soukiasian PD, Kyrana Z, Gerothanasi K, Kiranas E, Kokokiris LE. Prevalence, Determinants, and Consumer Stance towards Dietary Supplements According to Sex in a Large Greek Sample: A Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients 2022; 14. [PMID: 36501160 DOI: 10.3390/nu14235131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A stratified random sampling technique was used in order to explore the prevalence of and the factors influencing dietary supplement (DS) use and the consumer stance towards DS by Greeks (n = 28,491, ≥15 years) according to sex. Additionally, we performed a Pearson’s chi-square to test within DS users for the dependence between sex and the examined factors, and binary logistic regression to create predictive DS user profiles. A history of DS use accounted for 55.5% and was more prevalent in women (58.4% vs. 52.3%, p < 0.001); multivitamins were the most popular DS used. The significant predictors for DS use for both sexes were age, education, employment status, exercise, and following a special diet, while BMI and monthly income were significant for women and men, respectively. The women and men DS users had mostly illness-health and fitness-related goals, respectively. Substantial proportions of the respondents had false beliefs about DS. A noticeable percentage of DS users displayed imprudent behavior regarding DS use, e.g., one out of five did not know the definition or did not take into consideration the recommended daily allowance. While several factors seemed to impact DS use, with certain differences between the sexes, the considerable lack of knowledgeable and responsible use of DS, with few differences between the sexes, observed can point state authorities and health professionals towards appropriate countermeasures.
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Youn BY, Moon S, Mok K, Cheon C, Ko Y, Park S, Jang BH, Shin YC, Ko SG. Use of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine in nine countries: A cross-sectional multinational survey. Complement Ther Med 2022; 71:102889. [PMID: 36162719 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2022.102889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TC&AM) play an exceptional role in health care around the world as many patients has sought a holistic approach. SETTING In this study, a multinational survey was developed and administered to obtain experience, attitude, and promotion information with regard to the international use of TC&AM among nine countries: Germany, United States, Japan, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Russia, Kazakhstan, and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The survey was administered via online to members of SurveyMonkey Audience, a proprietary panel of respondents who were recruited from a diverse population worldwide. RESULTS A total of 1071 participants has completed the survey. The participants were in favor of the treatments and therapies as well as expressed positive attitudes and also have used herbal medicine treatment more than acupuncture therapy and also used the modalities to promote metabolism rather than treating musculoskeletal diseases. Moreover, participants mentioned that TC&AM should be applied for treating and managing infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. Additionally, participants recommended using Facebook channel to promote its treatments and therapies. CONCLUSION Based on the results, this study provides initial insights on TC&AM that may influence the non-users globally and perhaps inspire a need for further research including more countries in different continents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Young Youn
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Seunghwan Moon
- Department of Global Public Health and Korean Medicine Management, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyungyul Mok
- Department of Global Public Health and Korean Medicine Management, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Chunhoo Cheon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Youme Ko
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunju Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, 62 Daehak-ro, Dong-gu, Daejeon 34520, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Bo-Hyoung Jang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Yong Cheol Shin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
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Karaman Özlü Z, Kılınç T, Özlü İ, Ünal H, Toraman RL. The relationship between individuals' use of complementary and alternative medicine during the pandemic in Turkey and their attitudes towards perceived COVID-19 risk. Eur J Integr Med 2022; 56:102194. [PMID: 36245699 PMCID: PMC9553967 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2022.102194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The perceived COVID-19 risk may lead to the use of various complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities to reduce the potential risks of this disease. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between individuals' use of complementary and alternative medicine during the pandemic in Turkey and their attitudes towards perceived COVID-19 risk. Methods The study was conducted in Turkey between November 2021 and March 2022 and 1003 individuals voluntarily participated. The Personal Information Form, Attitude Towards Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Scale (HCAMS), and Perceived COVID-19 Risk Scale (PCRS) were used for data collection. To evaluate the data descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and Cronbach's alpha reliability analysis were used. Results In the study, 54.2% of the individuals were found to use CAM during the pandemic, and 56.2% believed that CAM practices were useful in preventing or recovering from COVID-19. It was revealed that 53.8% of the individuals drank herbal tea, 55.2% used religious and spiritual healing to manage, 6.6% used massage, and 10.1% applied aromatherapy. The mean total score of the HCAMS was 28.29 ± 4.99, and the mean total score of the perceived COVID-19 risk scale was 27.78 ± 6.35. A statistically significant positive correlation was identified between the CAM subscale and the emotional risk subscale (p < 0.05). Conclusion Individuals had a positive attitude towards using CAM during the pandemic period, the risk perception of COVID-19 was high and CAM methods were widely used.The literature should be supported by increasing the current and scientific studies in which CAM methods are questioned and their benefits are investigated during epidemic periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Karaman Özlü
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Ataturk University, Erzurum 25240, Turkey,Corresponding author
| | - Tülay Kılınç
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Ataturk University, Erzurum 25240, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Özlü
- Emergency Department, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Harun Ünal
- Van Vocational School of Health Services, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Rümeysa Lale Toraman
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Ataturk University, Erzurum 25240, Turkey
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Le-Trilling VTK, Mennerich D, Schuler C, Sakson R, Lill JK, Kasarla SS, Kopczynski D, Loroch S, Flores-Martinez Y, Katschinski B, Wohlgemuth K, Gunzer M, Meyer F, Phapale P, Dittmer U, Sickmann A, Trilling M. Identification of herbal teas and their compounds eliciting antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. BMC Biol 2022; 20:264. [PMID: 36447206 PMCID: PMC9708519 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01468-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted medical and socioeconomic havoc, and despite the current availability of vaccines and broad implementation of vaccination programs, more easily accessible and cost-effective acute treatment options preventing morbidity and mortality are urgently needed. Herbal teas have historically and recurrently been applied as self-medication for prophylaxis, therapy, and symptom alleviation in diverse diseases, including those caused by respiratory viruses, and have provided sources of natural products as basis for the development of therapeutic agents. To identify affordable, ubiquitously available, and effective treatments, we tested herbs consumed worldwide as herbal teas regarding their antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS Aqueous infusions prepared by boiling leaves of the Lamiaceae perilla and sage elicit potent and sustained antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 when applied after infection as well as prior to infection of cells. The herbal infusions exerted in vitro antiviral effects comparable to interferon-β and remdesivir but outperformed convalescent sera and interferon-α2 upon short-term treatment early after infection. Based on protein fractionation analyses, we identified caffeic acid, perilla aldehyde, and perillyl alcohol as antiviral compounds. Global mass spectrometry (MS) analyses performed comparatively in two different cell culture infection models revealed changes of the proteome upon treatment with herbal infusions and provided insights into the mode of action. As inferred by the MS data, induction of heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX-1) was confirmed as effector mechanism by the antiviral activity of the HMOX-1-inducing compounds sulforaphane and fraxetin. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, herbal teas based on perilla and sage exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 including variants of concern such as Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron, and we identified HMOX-1 as potential therapeutic target. Given that perilla and sage have been suggested as treatment options for various diseases, our dataset may constitute a valuable resource also for future research beyond virology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu Thuy Khanh Le-Trilling
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Denise Mennerich
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Corinna Schuler
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Roman Sakson
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Julia K. Lill
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Siva Swapna Kasarla
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Dominik Kopczynski
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Stefan Loroch
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Yulia Flores-Martinez
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Katschinski
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Wohlgemuth
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gunzer
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany ,grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Experimental Immunology and Imaging, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Folker Meyer
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for AI in Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Prasad Phapale
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany
| | - Ulf Dittmer
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Albert Sickmann
- grid.419243.90000 0004 0492 9407Leibniz-Institut Für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - E.V., Dortmund, Germany ,grid.5570.70000 0004 0490 981XMedizinische Fakultät, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany ,grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Chemistry, College of Physical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Mirko Trilling
- grid.5718.b0000 0001 2187 5445Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Virchowstr. 179, 45147 Essen, Germany
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Delice B, Saleki N, Pehlivan M, Sezer FE, Bakırhan H, Özkaya V. Evaluation of psychosocial status and nutritional awareness in municipal employees during the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak: A cross-sectional study. Nutr Health 2022:2601060221138897. [PMID: 36412045 DOI: 10.1177/02601060221138897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 emerged in China in December 2019 as a disease spreading from person to person by rapid droplet transmission, and which eventually evolved into a pandemic. Aim: This study aims to examine the psychosocial state, nutritional awareness, and physical activity level of municipal employees who provided services under changing working conditions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods: A total of 220 employees working in two different municipalities in Istanbul were included in this study during March and April of 2021. For data collection, a questionnaire form was used. The form consisted of questions about the demographics and nutritional awareness of individuals, the Coronavirus-19 Phobia Scale, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short form). Results: The mean total coronaphobia score was 51.08 ± 14.47 with the mean score for women being significantly higher than that for men (p < 0.05). The mean score obtained by the responses of participants to questions about nutritional awareness during the pandemic was significantly higher than the mean score referring to the period before the pandemic. The examination of the physical activity level of employees revealed that 62.4% of the men and 60% of the women were physically inactive during the pandemic. Conclusion: It was found that the coronaphobia scores of municipal employees during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic were at an average level, their nutritional awareness levels increased in general compared to the pre-pandemic period, and municipal employees were mostly inactive physically during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Büşranur Delice
- Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), 218502Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Neda Saleki
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, 218502Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Merve Pehlivan
- Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma E Sezer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, 218502Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hande Bakırhan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, 218502Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Volkan Özkaya
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, 218502Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Tarus HA, Yalazı RÖ, Karadeniz H, Can Gürkan Ö. Traditional and Complementary Medicines Methods Used by Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19. Complement Med Res 2022; 30:19-25. [PMID: 36198258 PMCID: PMC9892993 DOI: 10.1159/000527311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to determine traditional and complementary medicines (T&CM) methods used by patients before and after being diagnosed with COVID-19. METHODS This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between 27 March 2021 and 2 July 2021, in the community health services unit of Düzce Province, Central District, in the western Black Sea region. 547 people participated in the study. Two forms prepared by the researchers, the "Participant Identification Form" and the "Assessment Form for the Use of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Methods," were used to collect the data. RESULTS Before the diagnosis of COVID-19, patients reported that they consumed the highest rate of medicinal plants (56.1%) and fruits (40.4%) and prayed (40.4%) to prevent disease. After the diagnosis of COVID-19, they stated that they consumed the highest percentage of medicinal plants (68.4%) and fruit (53.0%) and prayed (48.4%) to reduce disease symptoms. It was seen that herbal products/herbal mixtures (medicinal plants [p < 0.001], fruits [p < 0.001], and fruit vinegars [p < 0.001]), and T&CM methods such as supplements like C, E, D, and other vitamins (p < 0.001), prayer (p < 0.001), massage (p < 0.001), and apitherapy (p < 0.001) were found to be statistically significant after COVID-19 diagnosis compared to before. CONCLUSION In this study, it was determined that the patients often used T&CM methods such as herbal products (especially medicinal plants and fruits) and prayer before and after COVID-19 diagnosis, and the use of these T&CM methods increased significantly after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamide Arslan Tarus
- Division of Nursing, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey, .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey,
| | - Rüveyda Ölmez Yalazı
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey,Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Hilal Karadeniz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey,Division of Nursing, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Düzce University, Düzce, Turkey
| | - Özlem Can Gürkan
- Division of Nursing, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey,*Özlem Can Gürkan,
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Almegewly WH, Alenazi RB, Albaqami FM, Alkharashi RA, Alsaedi FA, Almutairi RK, Alkharji AA, Althani GM, Aljuwayd WA. Perceptions and Patterns of Dietary Supplements' Use during COVID-19 among Undergraduate Female Students in Saudi Arabia. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183728. [PMID: 36145104 PMCID: PMC9506526 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of Dietary Supplements (DSs) has increased for health promotion purposes. Few data records were found on the safe use of DSs among university students in Saudi Arabia, during COVID-19. This study aimed to assess the perceptions and patterns of DSs during COVID-19 among students at a selected female university. (2) Methods: A descriptive cross-section design was used. A convenient sample of undergraduate students (n = 651) were recruited via email, to fill in an online validated questionnaire: The nutrition and intake of DSs during COVID-19. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. (3) Results: Among the 509 students who did not have chronic diseases, 85% of them had taken DSs. About 35.5% of the students had not changed their dietary habits since the beginning of COVID-19, but 78.6% thought that they needed to improve their immunity by taking DSs. Half of the students 51.2% believed that healthy habits may reduce the chance of being infected with COVID-19. The most used DSs were vitamin C (84.3%), followed by honey (65.3%), and vitamin D (47.7%). At the top of students’ references for DSs was personal judgment or previous knowledge of the benefits (27.3%). (4) Conclusion: The usage and patterns of DSs were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking DSs without a doctor’s prescription may lead to several complications. DSs users should be educated effectively about the proper use of DSs as an external supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Hamad Almegewly
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Rimah Bader Alenazi
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fayhaa Mohammed Albaqami
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Fatimah Abdulrhman Alsaedi
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Khalaf Almutairi
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhanouf Abdullah Alkharji
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghadeer Mohammed Althani
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa Abdullah Aljuwayd
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
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Wahab MSA, Jalani MM, Goh KW, Ming LC, Faller EM. Why Did I Consult My Pharmacist about Herbal and Dietary Supplements? An Online Survey Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph191710994. [PMID: 36078707 PMCID: PMC9517816 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Herbal and dietary supplements (HDSs) are frequently obtained from community pharmacies, but community pharmacists (CPs) have been underutilized for information regarding them. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of, factors behind, and reasons for consultation with CPs among HDS consumers in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study using an online survey was conducted among conveniently sampled individuals in Malaysia. Reasons for consultation or non-consultation with CPs about HDSs were sought from the respondents. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the predictors of consultation with CPs. Overall, 40.3% (239/593) of participants consulted CPs about the HDSs that they purchased. The participants were predominantly unmarried (362/588, 61.6%) and belonged to the 18-29 age group (332/593, 56%). The multivariate analysis showed that a suburban residential setting was the only significant predictor for consultation with CPs (adjusted odds ratio = 0.390, 95% CI = 0.260-0.583). Respondents who consulted CPs generally agreed that the CPs were the right people to consult on HDSs (mean = 4.37, SD = 0.73). However, their discussion with CPs regarding HDSs mostly revolved around the benefits and directions for use, but little on the potential risks. Meanwhile, most respondents who did not consult CPs agreed that they had never thought of consulting CPs about their HDS use (mean = 3.45, SD = 1.02). The majority of them referred to the Internet (61.3%, 217/354) and social media (59.9%, 212/354) for information about HDSs. The findings from this study show that more efforts are warranted in encouraging consumers to consult CPs about their HDS use and to enhance their awareness of the roles of CPs in ensuring the safe use of HDSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Shahezwan Abd Wahab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Selangor, Kampus Puncak Alam, Puncak Alam 42300, Malaysia
- Non-Destructive Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Centre, Smart Manufacturing Research Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Selangor, Kampus Puncak Alam, Puncak Alam 42300, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (M.S.A.W.); (L.C.M.)
| | - Muhammad Mustaqim Jalani
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Selangor, Kampus Puncak Alam, Puncak Alam 42300, Malaysia
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei
- Correspondence: (M.S.A.W.); (L.C.M.)
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Pranskuniene Z, Balciunaite R, Simaitiene Z, Bernatoniene J. Herbal Medicine Uses for Respiratory System Disorders and Possible Trends in New Herbal Medicinal Recipes during COVID-19 in Pasvalys District, Lithuania. IJERPH 2022; 19:8905. [PMID: 35897276 PMCID: PMC9332438 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19158905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Despite some preliminary studies of the available herbal medicine preparations and their curative effects on COVID-19, experts still fear that unproper use of such homemade medicines could do more harm than good to people relying on unproven alternatives of questionable efficacy. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of herbal medicines used for respiratory system disorders in the Pasvalys district during the COVID-19 pandemic in Lithuania. An archival source was also studied, looking for possible recipes for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases in Lithuanian traditional medicine, emphasizing the safety guidelines. The survey was conducted using the deep interview method. The respondents mentioned 60 species of medicinal plants from 29 different families used for the treatment and prevention of respiratory system disorders (for cough mostly, 51.70% of all indications). Twenty eight out of 60 plant species were not included in the European Medicines Agency monographs and only 50% of all included species were used as indicated by the European Medicines Agency for respiratory system disorders. The trends in the ethnopharmacological choices of modern consumers and the analysis of archival sources can be a great source of ideas for new herbal-based pharmaceutical preparations for COVID-19 symptoms in Lithuania considering the safety recommendations.
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Bendezu-Quispe G, Benites-Meza JK, Urrunaga-Pastor D, Herrera-Añazco P, Uyen-Cateriano A, Rodriguez-Morales AJ, Toro-Huamanchumo CJ, Hernandez AV, Benites-Zapata VA. Consumption of Herbal Supplements or Homeopathic Remedies to Prevent COVID-19 and Intention of Vaccination for COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7060095. [PMID: 35736974 PMCID: PMC9229216 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7060095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) have a lower intention to receive vaccines. Furthermore, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region are among the most affected areas by the COVID-19 pandemics and present a high proportion of CAM users. Therefore, this study evaluates the association between the consumption of herbal supplements or homeopathic remedies to prevent COVID-19 and the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 in the LAC region. We conducted a secondary data analysis of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) survey with Facebook to assess COVID-19 beliefs, behaviours, and norms. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using generalized linear models of the Poisson family with the log link function. The prevalence of the use of products to prevent COVID-19 was the following: consumption of herbal supplements (7.2%), use of homeopathic remedies (4.8%), and consumption of garlic, ginger, and lemon (11.8%). An association was found between using herbal supplements (19.0% vs. 12.8%; aPR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.30–1.58), the use of homeopathic remedies (20.3% vs. 12.3%; aPR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.25–1.98), and the consumption of garlic, ginger, and lemon (18.9% vs. 11.9%; aPR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.50–1.61) and non-intention to vaccinate against COVID-19. In the LAC population, there is an association between using herbal supplements, using homeopathic remedies and consuming garlic, ginger, and lemon to prevent infection by COVID-19 and non-intention to vaccinate against this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to design targeted strategies for groups that consume these products as preventive measures against COVID-19 to increase vaccination coverage and expand the information regarding transmission and prevention strategies for SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Bendezu-Quispe
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo 13001, Peru;
- Red Internacional en Salud Colectiva y Salud Intercultural, Mexico City 56690, Mexico;
| | - Jerry K. Benites-Meza
- Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo 13011, Peru;
- Grupo Peruano de Investigación Epidemiológica, Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima 15012, Peru
| | - Diego Urrunaga-Pastor
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima 15067, Peru
- Correspondence: (D.U.-P.); (V.A.B.-Z.)
| | - Percy Herrera-Añazco
- Red Internacional en Salud Colectiva y Salud Intercultural, Mexico City 56690, Mexico;
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación—IETSI, EsSalud, Lima 14072, Peru
- Escuela de Enfermería, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Lima 15067, Peru
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Latin American Network of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Research (LANCOVID), Pereira 660003, Colombia;
- Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundación Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira 660003, Colombia
| | | | - Adrian V. Hernandez
- Health Outcomes, Policy, and Evidence Synthesis (HOPES) Group, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA;
- Unidad de Revisiones Sistemáticas y Metaanálisis, Guías de Práctica Clínica y Evaluaciones Tecnológicas Sanitarias, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL), Lima 15024, Peru
| | - Vicente A. Benites-Zapata
- Red Internacional en Salud Colectiva y Salud Intercultural, Mexico City 56690, Mexico;
- Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL), Lima 15012, Peru
- Correspondence: (D.U.-P.); (V.A.B.-Z.)
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Alshammari KF, Alradaddi FM, Alshammari KF, Almutairi MQ, Almakhalfi NS, Almeshari RA, Alaezaimee SM. Assessment of Knowledge about Traditional Medicine Reveals Overuse as a Potential Risk for Aggravating COVID-19 and Underlying Diseases in Geriatrics and Women’s Health in the Saudi Population. Clin Pract 2022; 12:363-73. [PMID: 35645318 PMCID: PMC9149801 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract12030041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The devastating COVID-19 pandemic has created several gaps in the management of viral infections, leaving biocontainment and supportive measures as the only resorts for control. As such, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of dietary supplementations and herbal medicine for COVID-19. However, serious concerns regarding the efficacy, safety, and recommended doses of these medicines have been raised. In this study, we aimed to assess the population knowledge about alternative medicine administration for COVID-19 and the associated factors. Using a self-administered cross-sectional survey, we analyzed a total of 2042 valid responses. Most of the included participants were females (69.7%), with an overall mean age of 20.8 ± 11.8 years. Most respondents (62.8%) obtained their knowledge from social media while only 16.6% received knowledge from the health care workers. Half of the participants (50.6%) correctly identified all COVID-19 symptoms, where fever (18.5%) and loss of smell and taste (17.1%) were the most frequent answers. On the use of traditional medicines and supplements for COVID-19, 57.8% did not answer, 23.7% admitted regular use, and 18.5% used sometimes. Family members or friends suggested the use of traditional medicines and dietary supplements to 28.0% of the participants while only 14.7% were advised by a nutritionist, physician, pharmacist, nurse, or a health worker. Moreover, seniors and illiterate portions of society had lower knowledge scores and increased utilization of alternative medicine. Marital status, income, and previous COVID-19 were all significant predictors of the awareness and knowledge score. Thus, this study has identified overuse of unregulated medicinal products in the region, which potentially aggravates COVID-19 or other underlying risks of the disease, making clinical management challenging, particularly in geriatrics and women’s health. Regulation of medicinal products and establishment of educational campaigns about the disease have become imperative.
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Fernandez-Guzman D, Soriano-Moreno DR, Ccami-Bernal F, Velasquez-Fernandez R, Morocho-Alburqueque N, De-Los-Rios-Pinto A, Coba-Villan N, Diaz-Corrales A, Pinedo-Soria A, Grados-Espinoza P, Nieto-Gutierrez W. Factors associated with prevention practices against COVID-19 in the Peruvian population: Disparities between rural and urban areas. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267625. [PMID: 35536862 PMCID: PMC9089852 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective
To determine the factors associated with prevention practices against COVID-19 in the Peruvian population according to rural vs. urban locations.
Methods
Analytical cross-sectional study, secondary analysis based on a previously collected database. A sample of individuals over 18 years of age, residing in Peru and with no history of COVID-19was evaluated. Factors associated with prevention practices were evaluated using Poisson regressions with variance adjustment by region cluster and stratified by rurality.
Results
Of 3231 participants included, 2741 (84.8%) were from urban areas and 490 (15.2%) from rural areas. The frequency of good prevention practices against COVID-19 was 27.8% in our total sample. In urban areas the frequency of good prevention practices was 28.8% and in rural areas it was 22.5%. Factors associated with prevention practices against COVID-19 in both urban and rural areas were male sex (urban: aPR 0.64, 95%CI 0.55–0.75; rural: aPR 0.66, 95%CI 0.54–0.80) and self-considering adequately carrying out prevention practices (urban: aPR 2.48, 95%CI 2.13–2.89; rural: aPR 2.70, 95%CI 2.27–3.19).
Conclusion
The frequency of good prevention practices against COVID-19 was less than 30% in both urban and rural areas. There are differences in the factors associated with good preventive practice against COVID-19. Only sex and considering that preventive measures were adequately carried out were associated with good prevention practices in both areas. In view of this, prevention measures should be promoted taking into account cultural principles and considering geographical location in the face of present and future outbreaks or pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fernandez-Guzman
- Grupo Peruano de Investigación Epidemiológica, Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Perú
- Escuela Profesional de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Perú
| | - David R. Soriano-Moreno
- Unidad de Investigación Clínica y Epidemiológica, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Peruana Unión, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | - Noelia Morocho-Alburqueque
- Escuela profesional de Medicina Humana, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Castilla, Peru
| | - Abraham De-Los-Rios-Pinto
- Escuela Profesional de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Perú
| | - Naomi Coba-Villan
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, Cajamarca, Peru
| | | | - Antony Pinedo-Soria
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Tarapoto, Peru
| | - Pamela Grados-Espinoza
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión, Cerro de Pasco, Peru
| | - Wendy Nieto-Gutierrez
- Unidad de Investigación para la Generación de Síntesis de Evidencia en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
- * E-mail:
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Kim TH, Kang JW, Jeon SR, Ang L, Lee HW, Lee MS. Use of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:884573. [PMID: 35615091 PMCID: PMC9125211 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.884573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundTraditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) has been reported to use for symptom management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The objective of this review was to identify the overall usage prevalence of TCIM interventions for COVID-19.MethodsSurveys on the general population and observational studies on the COVID-19 patient chart review were located in the search of PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases in September 2021. Observational studies, such as cross-sectional studies, surveys, cohort studies and hospital-based patient case reviews, published in any language, reporting the usage of TCIM in the patients with COVID-19 or the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic were included in this review. Data screening and extraction were performed independently by two reviewers. The reporting quality of the included studies was assessed with the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement. To conduct a meta-analysis of the usage prevalence of various TCIM interventions, the effect size of the proportion for each intervention was calculated with the inverse variance method. The main outcome was usage prevalence of TCIM interventions among patients with COVID-19 or the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic.ResultsA total of 62 studies were included in this review. The overall TCIM usage prevalence was estimated to be 0.64 (95% CI 0.54–0.73). The overall prevalence did not differ between the population-based survey (0.65, 95% CI 0.48–0.81) and the hospital-based patient case review (0.63, 95% CI 0.52–0.73). Statistical heterogeneity and comparatively low quality in reporting were observed, which should be cautiously considered when interpreting the results.ConclusionVarious TCIM interventions were reported to be used with comparatively high frequency. Future international collaborative research might overcome the main limitation of this study, i.e., the heterogeneity of the included data.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=278452, identifier: CRD42021278452.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Hun Kim
- Korean Medicine Clinical Trial Center, Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung Won Kang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sae-Rom Jeon
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Lin Ang
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
- Korean Convergence Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hye Won Lee
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
- Korean Convergence Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Myeong Soo Lee
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Gabrielli M, Franza L, Esperide A, Gasparrini I, Gasbarrini A, Franceschi F; on behalf of GEMELLI AGAINST COVID 2019. Liver Injury in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19: Possible Role of Therapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:192. [PMID: 35214651 PMCID: PMC8880796 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with COVID-19 show a high prevalence of liver injury. The pattern of this liver damage is still not fully understood. Different etiopathogenetic factors may concur; from a direct cytopathic effect, once the virus binds to the ACE-2 receptors, to the immune-mediated collateral damage, due to cytokine storm. The presence of pre-existing chronic liver disease is a contributing factor for acute organ damage during SARS-CoV2 infection. Last but not least, treatments probably play a role, also, in determining hepatotoxicity: many of the drugs we have used or are still using to treat COVID-19, combined with non-invasive ventilation, are known to sometimes determine acute liver injury. Although liver damage associated with COVID-19 is often transient and can resolve without any special treatment, it is important to understand the underlying mechanisms, particularly to better treat its more severe forms.
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Mukattash TL, Alkhalidy H, Alzu'bi B, Abu-Farha R, Itani R, Karout S, Khojah HMJ, Khdour M, El-Dahiyat F, Jarab A. Dietary supplements intake during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic: A multinational Middle Eastern study. Eur J Integr Med 2022; 49:102102. [PMID: 35039757 PMCID: PMC8754456 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2022.102102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Despite the controversy about the benefits of dietary supplements in treating or preventing COVID-19, their use has increased worldwide even with the introduction of relevant vaccines. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the perception of the Middle Eastern Arab public of dietary supplements as prophylactic or therapeutic agents against COVID-19, and their consumption during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A validated, pilot tested online survey was distributed through social networking platforms in Lebanon, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. Responses underwent various statistical analyses. Results A total of 2,100 responses were included. Around 44% of participants reported changes in their dietary behavior during COVID-19, and 70% believed that healthy habits may prevent the infection. Moreover, 21% believed that dietary supplements surely protect against COVID-19 and 45% thought they aid in treating it. Users of supplements during the second wave of the pandemic counted for 47%, who declared they were influenced by the media, healthcare providers, or close contacts. Most used supplements included Vitamins C and D and zinc. Only 34% of participants read supplement leaflets. The use of supplements was significantly correlated with being female and exercising, as revealed by the odds ratio and logistic regression analysis. Conclusions In line with other areas of the world, the use of dietary supplements in the Middle East against COVID-19 is not evidence-based. Competent health authorities should play their role in spreading sound awareness among the public regarding this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 3030, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hana Alkhalidy
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 3030, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Buthaina Alzu'bi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 3030, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rana Abu-Farha
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, 1107 2809, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani M J Khojah
- Department of Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, P.O. Box: 30051, 41477, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Maher Khdour
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faris El-Dahiyat
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ain University, P. O. Box 64141, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anan Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 3030, Irbid, Jordan
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Alotiby A, Alshareef M. Comparison Between Healthcare Professionals and the General Population on Parameters Related to Natural Remedies Used During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Multidiscip Healthc 2022; 14:3523-3532. [PMID: 34992379 PMCID: PMC8714005 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s343140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Herbal medicine is commonly used for symptom relief and treatment because of its availability and lack of prescription regulation. However, the use of herbs is associated with adverse effects, drug interaction, and sometimes life-threatening complications. During the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, herbs were used when modern medicine failed to treat or immunize people against the virus in its early course. Although trials are still ongoing, herbal medicine was recommended for COVID-19 in Eastern countries based on expert consensus. Methods A descriptive web-based anonymous survey was created and distributed online all-over Saudi Arabia to gather information on commonly used herbs, knowledge, and attitude towards them among general population (GP) and health care workers (HCWs). Results Although the use of natural products was high among the GP, both groups used similar herbs, reflecting cultural traditions and beliefs. However, the GP had better knowledge about and attitudes toward the use of herbal medicine than HCWs did. Conclusion Mental exhaustion during the COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of research-based evidence might influence HCWs’ trust in and knowledge about herbal medicine. Therefore, research and educational courses on herbal medicine for all medical practitioners are needed for proper patient counseling to reduce risk and ensure patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Alotiby
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maram Alshareef
- Department of Community Medicine and Pilgrims Health, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Syed W, Samarkandi OA, Sadoun AA, Bashatah AS, Al-Rawi MBA, Alharbi MK. Prevalence, Beliefs, and the Practice of the Use of Herbal and Dietary Supplements Among Adults in Saudi Arabia: An Observational Study. INQUIRY 2022; 59:469580221102202. [PMID: 35596542 PMCID: PMC9130812 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221102202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim: Alternative treatments for respiratory disorders attempt to prevent or relieve symptoms and enhance functions. Furthermore, substantial evidence shows that several herbal medicines have been clinically effective against respiratory disorders. Thus this study assesses the Saudi students’ use, beliefs, and practices related to herbal and dietary supplements for the possible prevention of respiratory infections. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was designed using Google Forms to collect the data from the healthcare and non-healthcare students currently pursuing their courses at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The data was collected over 4 months, from November 2021 to February 2022, using convenience sampling with a 25-item questionnaire. A statistical package for social sciences, SPSS 26, was used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 274 participants responded to the study. The mean age of the respondents was 21.9 ± 3.08 (mean (SD)). The prevalence of herbal medicine (HM) was found to be 62.7% (n = 172). Around 48.5% (n = 133) of the respondents occasionally used some form of HM during the period of an illness associated with a respiratory infection. About 66% of the respondents agreed that using HMs prevents or controls respiratory symptoms and strengthens immunity. A majority (75.2%) of the respondents agreed that ginger extract possesses antiviral and immunity-boosting properties, followed by garlic extract (59.5%), cinnamon (39.4%), and lemongrass (38.3%). In addition, between 37% and 45.6% of the respondents agreed that vitamin C and vitamin D intake helps in boosting immunity and reducing the likelihood of developing respiratory infections. The overall mean of the positive beliefs and practice score was 9.6 (range 0-14). The mean positive beliefs and practice scores were significantly higher for males (11.4 ± 3.2) compared to females (8.6 ± 3.6) (P < .001). The numbers were not significantly different regardless of the source of information (9.6 ± 3.5), respondents being in health colleges (8.9 ± 4.1) or non-health colleges (9.8 ± 3.7), them being previously or currently infected (9.7 ± 3.8), the absence of infection (9.7 ± 3.8), or the respondents possessing a history of chronic diseases (10.5 ± 3.9) or not (9.5 ± 3.7) (P > .05). Conclusions: This study found a relatively high prevalence of herbal and dietary supplements’ use, positive beliefs, and practices to strengthen one’s immunity against respiratory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wajid Syed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama A. Samarkandi
- Basic Sciences Department, Prince Sultan bin AbdulAziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Al Sadoun
- Department of Medical Surgical College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel S. Bashatah
- Department of Nursing Administration & Education, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmood Basil A. Al-Rawi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad K. Alharbi
- Department of Nursing Administration & Education, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Fernandez SC, Fernandez JP. Knowledge of people in the East London District of South Africa about Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: an online survey. ABCS Health Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.7322/abcshs.2021094.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: World Health Organization declared Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 a pandemic after two months of its propagation in China. The lack of coordination among people about the new Coronavirus threat is evident mainly due to the dearth of knowledge. Objective: To assess the knowledge of people in the East London district of South Africa about Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Methods: The study was anchored on a quantitative method approach and adopted a descriptive research design. The sample consisted of 160 adults. Using the virtual snowball sampling technique, people who were 18 years and above of age and can read English were selected for the online survey. The data were collected using a 3-point Likert scale questionnaire which was uploaded in Google Form. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The majority of the participants knew the myths and facts about the news. They were aware that wearing a face mask prevents Coronavirus transmission, drinking liquor and using hand dryers would not kill the virus. Some people were not sure whether eating garlic or rinsing the nose regularly with saline water would help to prevent from being affected by Coronavirus. The findings also showed that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) among different age groups of people on their knowledge about the Coronavirus. Conclusion: By comparing the overall findings with the facts issued by World Health Organization, people in the East London district of South Africa had sound knowledge about Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 on its transmission and what preventive measures should be taken.
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Kretchy IA, Boadu JA, Kretchy JP, Agyabeng K, Passah AA, Koduah A, Opuni KFM. Utilization of complementary and alternative medicine for the prevention of COVID-19 infection in Ghana: A national cross-sectional online survey. Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101633. [PMID: 34777985 PMCID: PMC8575551 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
82.5% of all participants reported CAM use during the COVID-19 pandemic period. 69.1% of CAM users intended it for COVID-19 infection prevention. Commonly used CAM include vitamins, spiritual healing/prayer, minerals and herbals. Age, sex and COVID-19 illness perception significantly predicted CAM use.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is widespread and has played critical roles in preventing infections, including previous coronaviruses. This study sought to document current practices in the use of CAM for the prevention of COVID-19 disease in Ghana. An anonymous electronic survey was conducted from February 1, 2021 to April 30, 2021. Data on demographic characteristics, basic clinical information, illness perceptions about COVID-19, and CAM use during the pandemic period were generated. While about 82.5% (986/1195) of the participants used CAM during the COVID-19 period, 69.1% (681/986) of CAM users intented it for COVID-19 infection prevention. Vitamin supplements (88.1%, 869/986), spiritual healing/prayer (23.3%, 230/986), mineral supplements (22.3%, 220/986), botanical/herbal medicines (22.2%, 219/986), and diet therapy (19.4%, 191/986) were the main types of CAM used. From the adjusted binary logistic regression model, current age (aOR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.01–1.05), sex (aOR: 1.41, 95%CI: 1.02–1.95), participants’ perceptions of consequences (aOR: 1.10, 95%CI: 1.04–1.17), identity (aOR: 1.15, 95%CI: 1.06–1.25) and concerns about COVID-19 (aOR: 0.91, 95%CI: 0.85–0.97) were statistically significant predictors of CAM use. These results suggest the need for appropriate public health policy on COVID-19 and CAM use in addition to directing further research initiatives toward an optimized COVID-19 prevention scheme using clinically validated CAM treatments. Research to validate the clinical efficacy of these products, especially the herbs, for COVID-19 prevention while isolating lead compounds that could be optimized and used for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 is also recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene A Kretchy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph A Boadu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - James-Paul Kretchy
- Department of Physician Assistantship Studies, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Central University, Miotso, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kofi Agyabeng
- Department of Mathematics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alfred A Passah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustina Koduah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kwabena F M Opuni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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ALkharashi NA. The consumption of nutritional supplements and herbal products for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection among the Saudi population in Riyadh. Clin Nutr Open Sci 2021; 39:11-20. [PMID: 34585172 PMCID: PMC8461002 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutos.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the Saudi population's beliefs regarding the consumption of nutritional supplements and herbal products for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in Riyadh. METHODS A cross-sectional study that included 1460 participants aged between 12 and 86 years was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between October 01, 2020, and October 30, 2020, via an online survey using a questionnaire. The questionnaire was uploaded as a Google Doc file on Google Drive, and a link to the survey was distributed to respondents via social media platforms (Twitter, WhatsApp, and Instagram). The survey instrument included 30 questions, including sociodemographic characteristics and the use of nutritional supplements and herbal products. RESULTS The findings of our study revealed a significant increase in intake and the frequency of consumption of nutritional supplements and herbal products during the COVID-19 pandemic period than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Social media and the Internet (29.7%) and relatives or friends (14.7%) were the main motivators for the participants to try herbal products. The majority of the participants reported using zinc (72.9%), vitamin C (56.0%), garlic (Allium sativum) (53.8%), and cinnamon (52.0%) during the COVID-19 pandemic period. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the findings of our study demonstrated that the intake of nutritional supplements and herbal products increased among the general population in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic period to protect them from the disease. In addition, the intake of nutritional supplements and herbal products should be evidence-based to ensure patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A ALkharashi
- Food Sciences and Nutrition, Human Nutrition Major, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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Villena-Tejada M, Vera-Ferchau I, Cardona-Rivero A, Zamalloa-Cornejo R, Quispe-Florez M, Frisancho-Triveño Z, Abarca-Meléndez RC, Alvarez-Sucari SG, Mejia CR, Yañez JA. Use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru: A cross-sectional survey. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257165. [PMID: 34550994 PMCID: PMC8457479 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru has led to people seeking alternative treatments as preventives and treatment options such as medicinal plants. This study aimed to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants as preventive or treatment of respiratory symptom related to COVID-19 during the pandemic in Cusco, Peru. METHOD A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted on general public (20- to 70-year-old) from August 31 to September 20, 2020. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms, it consisted of an 11-item questionnaire that was developed and validated by expert judgment using Aiken's V (Aiken's V > 0.9). Both descriptive statistics and bivariate followed by multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess factors associated with the use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 prevention and respiratory symptom treatment during the pandemic. Prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI), and a P-value of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 1,747 respondents participated in the study, 80.2% reported that they used medicinal plants as preventives, while 71% reported that they used them to treat respiratory symptoms. At least, 24% of respondents used medicinal plants when presenting with two or more respiratory symptoms, while at least 11% used plants for malaise. For treatment or prevention, the multivariate analysis showed that most respondents used eucalyptus (p < 0.001 for both), ginger (p < 0.022 for both), spiked pepper (p < 0.003 for both), garlic (p = 0.023 for prevention), and chamomile (p = 0.011 for treatment). The respondents with COVID-19 (p < 0.001), at older ages (p = 0.046), and with a family member or friend who had COVID-19 (p < 0.001) used more plants for prevention. However, the respondents with technical or higher education used less plants for treatment (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION There was a significant use of medicinal plants for both prevention and treatment, which was associated with several population characteristics and whether respondents had COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magaly Villena-Tejada
- Departamento Académico de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Ingrid Vera-Ferchau
- Departamento Académico de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Anahí Cardona-Rivero
- Departamento Académico de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Rina Zamalloa-Cornejo
- Departamento Académico de Matemáticas y Estadística, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Maritza Quispe-Florez
- Departamento Académico de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Zany Frisancho-Triveño
- Departamento Académico de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Rosario C. Abarca-Meléndez
- Escuela Profesional de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Susan G. Alvarez-Sucari
- Escuela Profesional de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | | | - Jaime A. Yañez
- Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Gerencia Corporativa de Asuntos Científicos y Regulatorios, Teoma Global, Lima, Peru
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Musoke P, Nantaayi B, Kato Ndawula R, Wannyana B, Ssewante N, Wekha G, Olum R, Nakyagaba L, Rhoda Nassozi D, Nabukeera G, Marvin Kanyike A, Ojilong D, Madut Akech G, Kajjimu J, Kiwumulo J, Agira D, Okot J, Bongomin F. Fear of COVID-19 and the Media Influence on Herbal Medication Use in Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:3965-3975. [PMID: 34584474 PMCID: PMC8464377 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s332325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created fear in people around the world. This has led to the widespread use of various herbal remedies in its prevention and treatment regardless of the paucity of scientific evidence about their safety and efficacy. This study assessed the fear of COVID-19 and the influence of media on the use of herbal medicine to prevent or treat COVID-19 in Uganda. METHODS In the first 2 weeks of July 2021, a descriptive online cross-sectional study was carried out anonymously in the general population in Uganda. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data on herbal medicine use and the influence of media. Fear of COVID-19 was rated using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S). RESULTS We recruited 488 participants, 273 (55.9%) were female, with a median age of 25 (range: 18-73) years. Sixty-seven (57.8%) participants had a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. The mean FCV-19S score was 21.7 SD 5.9 with 53.3% reporting high levels of COVID-19 fear. About 57.4% of participants reported using herbal remedies either to prevent or treat COVID-19-like symptoms. Media was the main source of information, with more than 80% of the participants reporting seeing or accessing information about herbal medication use. Women (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.74, 95% CI: 1.2-2.5, p=0.003) and people with a previously confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis (aOR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.35-7.14, p=0.008) had a statistically significantly higher FCV-19S score. Being unemployed (aOR: 1.0, 95% CI: 1.1-2.3, p=0.008) and a female (aOR: 1.0, 95% CI: 1.1-2.3, p=0.012) were statistically significantly associated with herbal medicine use. Participants who used herbal remedies had a higher median FCV-19S score compared to non-users (23 versus 21, p<0.001). CONCLUSION The use of herbal medicines to treat or prevent COVID-19 is a widespread practice among the general population in Uganda amidst the high levels of fear of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Musoke
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brandy Nantaayi
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rodney Kato Ndawula
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Babrah Wannyana
- School of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University Western Campus, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Nelson Ssewante
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Wekha
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Olum
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lourita Nakyagaba
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dianah Rhoda Nassozi
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Daniel Ojilong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | | | - Jonathan Kajjimu
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Drake Agira
- Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Jerom Okot
- Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Felix Bongomin
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
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Karataş Y, Khan Z, Bilen Ç, Boz A, Özagil ESG, Abussuutoğlu AB, Rahman H. Traditional and Complementary Medicine use and beliefs during COVID-19 outbreak: A cross-sectional survey among the general population in Turkey. Adv Integr Med 2021. [PMID: 34567968 DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a universal psychosocial impact, with many individuals exposed to threats preferring to try self-care interventions and non-conventional approaches such as traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) for preventive purposes. This study was conducted to determine the use of and beliefs about T&CM among a subset of the general Turkish population during the COVID-19 outbreak. Method A cross-sectional online survey was carried out among the general population (aged ≥ 18 years) of Adana, Turkey during the strict lockdown period (April 11 to April 30, 2020). The survey instrument included details about sociodemographic characteristics, general information, T&CM use and beliefs. It was distributed among eligible participants via social media channels (Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook accounts). Results Out of a total 389 participants, 39.3% (n = 153) used T&CM and 60.7% were non-T&CM users during COVID-19. Of those using T&CM, 61 (39.8%) reported the usage of more than one form of T&CM, mostly herbal medicine (30.8%), followed by nutritional supplements/vitamins (23.8%). 33.9% (n = 52) of participants using T&CM did not report T&CM use to theirmedical physicians. A statistically significant difference was observed between T&CM users and non-T&CM users in gender, age, marital status, level of education, income, and prior use of T&CM (p < 0.05). Social media (n = 204; 52.4%) was the primary source of information for T&CM use. Overall, 33.7%, 54.8% and 39% of participants in this stduy believed that T&CM therapies are effective, have fever side-effects/safe and should be use for COVID-19, respectively. Conclusion During the outbreak of COVID-19, a significant proportion of the population reported the use of T&CM, with different beliefs about T&CM being observed. Better-structured T&CM-specific educational programs, enhanced physician-patient communication and access to reliable information are needed to ensure appropriate T&CM use during pandemics in Turkey.
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Alshareef M, Alotiby A. Prevalence and Perception Among Saudi Arabian Population About Resharing of Information on Social Media Regarding Natural Remedies as Protective Measures Against COVID-19. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:5127-5137. [PMID: 34511995 PMCID: PMC8420801 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s326767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ever since COVID-19 was declared as a global pandemic, there has been a prevalence of misinformation circulating online on social media platforms. In order to better tackle COVID-19 it is important to determine how the general population perceive the sharing of medical information on social media platforms. Based on this, the aim of the study is to analyse the perception of Saudi Arabian Health Care Workers' (HCWs) and Non-Health Care Workers' (NHCWs) regarding the sharing and resharing of medical information, whether true or false, on social media platforms regarding COVID-19. METHODS To achieve the aim of this study, the general objective is to identify the most commonly used Social Media Platforms, determine the proportion of the Saudi Arabian population who have participated in recirculating information in those social media platforms, and to analyse their perception of medical information sharing in social media platforms. This study was conducted using a quantitative research methodology. The measurement tool used for this study was an online survey conducted using Google Survey. A 10-item questionnaire was adopted and translated to Arabic to conduct the survey. RESULTS The total number of responses for the study were N=1249. The findings of the study indicate that Saudi Arabian general population understand the prevalence of unverified information, but are accepting of the practice of sharing information without evidence on social media platforms, with the belief that such information does not cause actual harm to the general public, but instead would be beneficial. WhatsApp was the most preferred social media platform for receiving and sharing information among participants, followed by Twitter and Snapchat. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that the Saudi Arabian population are more wary than the global general population regarding misinformation online on social media platforms regarding COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maram Alshareef
- Family and Pain Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Pilgrims Health, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amna Alotiby
- Molecular and Medical Immunology, Department of Hematology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Mohsen H, Yazbeck N, Al-Jawaldeh A, Bou Chahine N, Hamieh H, Mourad Y, Skaiki F, Salame H, Salameh P, Hoteit M. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Dietary Supplementation, before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Survey in the Lebanese Population. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:8856. [PMID: 34444605 PMCID: PMC8395050 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
At the start of 2020, a new coronavirus (COVID-19) invaded the world leading to the death of 3.92 million people. Sadly, to date, no remedy has been discovered for this virus. Preventive vaccines have been under investigation, but were unavailable until December 2020. Clinical deficiencies of nutrients may increase susceptibility to infections. This knowledge may have provided an incentive for some dietary supplement (DS) manufacturers to advertise their products as COVID-19 preventatives or cures without any substantiation, targeting mainly social media fans. The objective of this research was to assess the usage, knowledge and attitudes towards dietary supplementation before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among Lebanese people. A cross-sectional study was conducted based on a convenience sample (N = 2966) and information from participants aged 18 years and above was collected about periods before and during the pandemic. Our findings showed that attitudes towards DSs changed when the pandemic emerged and people believed that DSs can improve their health and strengthen their immunity. Despite the rise in DS prescription by healthcare professionals, the prevalence of DS use decreased from 73.3% before the pandemic to 69.9% during the pandemic (p < 0.001). Study results declared that the weekly or the daily estimated intake had increased during the pandemic as compared to before the pandemic, from 14% to 15.6% for antioxidants (p = 0.014), from 35.3% to 42.1% for vitamin C (p < 0.001), from 35.5% to 41% for vitamin D (p < 0.001), from 15.2% to 17.5% for vitamin E (p = 0.002), and from 18.8% to 29.3% for zinc (p < 0.001) and other vitamins and minerals (from 9% to 10.9%, p < 0.001). Binary logistic regression indicated that the use of DSs during the pandemic was 4 times higher among those infected with COVID-19, 30 times higher among those who used to take DSs before pandemic, and 1.5 times higher among those who worked in the medical sector. To conclude, there is a crucial need to increase awareness among Lebanese people regarding the use of DSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala Mohsen
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon; (H.M.); (N.Y.)
| | - Nour Yazbeck
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon; (H.M.); (N.Y.)
| | - Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo 11371, Egypt;
| | - Nazih Bou Chahine
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon; (N.B.C.); (P.S.)
- Lebanese Food, Drugs and Chemical Administration, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Zahraa Hospital, University Medical Center, Beirut 0961, Lebanon
| | | | - Youmna Mourad
- Al Hadi Laboratory and IVF Center, Beirut 0961, Lebanon;
| | | | - Hassan Salame
- Lebanese University Task Force, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon;
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon; (N.B.C.); (P.S.)
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut 0961, Lebanon
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia 2408, Cyprus
| | - Maha Hoteit
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon; (H.M.); (N.Y.)
- Lebanese Food, Drugs and Chemical Administration, Lebanese University, Beirut 6573, Lebanon
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Alotiby A. The Impact of Media on Public Health Awareness Concerning the Use of Natural Remedies Against the COVID-19 Outbreak in Saudi Arabia. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:3145-3152. [PMID: 34239323 PMCID: PMC8260046 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s317348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused major health system problems and has fueled the emergence of various misinformation regarding preventive measures. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of media on raising the level of health awareness of Saudi Arabian populations regarding the medical misinformation about the use of natural remedies against COVID-19. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted anonymously in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between May 1st and June 30, 2020. The sample size was calculated using version-3.0 of OpenEpi. An 11-item questionnaire was designed to assess the effect of media on raising the level of health awareness of the population regarding the medical misinformation about the use of natural remedies during this pandemic. Results Among 1300 participants, nearly half (55.4%) reported having watched the Saudi Ministry of Health's (MOH) broadcasted awareness videos. Social media (78.9%) was the main media platform on which they accessed these videos, followed by television (14.9%), and the Internet (6.2%). The MOH's awareness videos had a positive effect on 69.5% of participants, who reported a change in their attitudes toward natural remedies and discontinuing the use of them as preventive medicine. The most discontinued natural remedies after watching the awareness videos were gargling with salt water (32.1%), followed by myrrh (17.6%), and garlic (12.9%). Positive effects were greater among participants with a low than high education level. Conclusion The findings of the current study indicate that the Saudi MOH's usage of social media channels has had a positive effect on the level of public health awareness concerning the reliability of natural remedies used during the pandemic. However, more research is needed to validate how social media networks can be used in a cross-cultural context to enhance health awareness and adaptation to healthy behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Alotiby
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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