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Pham Q, Hrin ML, Ghamrawi RI, Fleischer AB, Taylor SL, Feldman SR. Receptivity to misinformation is associated with a preference for complementary alternative medicine for atopic dermatitis. Int J Dermatol 2024. [PMID: 38572810 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.17143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Quan Pham
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Matthew L Hrin
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Rima I Ghamrawi
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Alan B Fleischer
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sarah L Taylor
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Steven R Feldman
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Social Sciences & Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Yan H, Wang X, Yu L, Liu X, Yan F, Xie Y, Pu Q, Yang Z. Effectiveness of adjuvant traditional Chinese medicine on macrovascular invasion in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a real-world propensity score-matched study. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1353720. [PMID: 38464727 PMCID: PMC10923102 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1353720] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the potential of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in reducing the risk of macrovascular invasion (MVI) in Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This retrospective analysis involved 2,267 HCC patients treated at our hospital. Propensity score (PS) matching was used to compare TCM users (n = 485) with non-users (n = 485) in terms of age, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging, type of treatment, and AFP. The impact of TCM on the hazard ratio (HR) of MVI was evaluated using a Cox multivariate regression model. The efficacy of TCM therapy on MVI was further examined using the log-rank test. The analysis revealed that TCM medication was a significant protective factor for MVI in HCC patients, as evidenced by the Cox analysis (adjusted HR = 0.496, 95% CI: 0.387-0.635, p < 0.001). After PS matching, the Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrated a lower occurrence rate of MVI in TCM users compared to non-users. The study findings suggest that TCM treatment has the potential to decrease the incidence of MVI in HCC patients, irrespective of etiology, BCLC staging, liver function, or treatment type. Notably, as the use of TCM increased, the percentage of MVI in patients showed a gradual decrease, indicating the potential of TCM therapy as a successful strategy for preventing MVI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhiyun Yang
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Luo KF, Zhou LX, Wu ZW, Tian Y, Jiang J, Wang MH. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications of huaier in breast cancer treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1269096. [PMID: 38313074 PMCID: PMC10836597 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1269096] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common female malignant tumors today and represents a serious health risk for women. Although the survival rate and quality of life of patients with breast cancer are improving with the continuous development of medical technology, metastasis, recurrence, and drug resistance of breast cancer remain a significant problem. Huaier, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) fungus, is a type of Sophora embolism fungus growing on old Sophora stems. The polysaccharides of Trametes robiniophila Murr (PS-T) are the main active ingredient of Huaier. There is increasing evidence that Huaier has great potential in breast cancer treatment, and its anti-cancer mechanism may be related to a variety of biological activities, such as the inhibition of cell proliferation, metastasis, tumor angiogenesis, the promotion of cancer cell death, and regulation of tumor-specific immunity. There is growing evidence that Huaier may be effective in the clinical treatment of breast cancer. This review systematically summarizes the basic and clinical studies on the use of Huaier in the treatment of breast cancer, providing useful information to guide the clinical application of Huaier and future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-fei Luo
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin-xi Zhou
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zi-wei Wu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Linyi People’s Hospital, Linyi, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming-hao Wang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of The Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Qiao M, Lei C, Tan C, Lu C, Chen Z, Zhang Q, Wang Z. Efficacy and safety of berberine for premature ventricular contractions: a meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Pharm Biol 2023; 61:1474-1483. [PMID: 37855412 PMCID: PMC10588516 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2248167] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Berberine is a potential drug that can effectively treat cardiovascular diseases, including premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of berberine for PVCs. METHODS The literature was searched using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to October 1, 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was adopted to assess the quality of evidence. RESULTS Ten RCTs with 896 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that compared to antiarrhythmic drugs (AD), berberine (BE) combined with AD had a higher effective rate (RR = 1.26; 95% CI:1.12, 1.42; p = 0.0001) with no significant incidence of adverse reactions (RR = 0.93; 95% CI:0.33, 2.57; p = 0.88), and BE alone had no significant difference in effective rate (RR = 0.91; 95% CI:0.77, 1.07; p = 0.23), and a lower incidence of adverse reactions (RR = 0.38; 95% CI:0.15, 0.97; p = 0.04) and recurrence rate (RR = 0.40; 95% CI:0.18, 0.88; p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that BE is an effective and safe adjunctive method for PVCs. In addition, BE is recommended for patients with PVCs who had severe adverse reactions after administrating AD as an alternative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Qiao
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Chao Lei
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Chaoren Tan
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, PR China
| | - Cuncun Lu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zijia Chen
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhifei Wang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, PR China
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Carr E. Establishing Clinical Evidence to Support Integrative Therapies in Clinical Oncology Care. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2023; 27:353-354. [PMID: 37677779 DOI: 10.1188/23.cjon.353-354] [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] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Integrative, alternative, and complementary treatments (also referred to as complementary and alternative medicine [CAM]) for patients with cancer are staples of supportive care to manage patient symptoms and enhance patient.
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Liu FY, Ding DN, Wang YR, Liu SX, Peng C, Shen F, Zhu XY, Li C, Tang LP, Han FJ. Icariin as a potential anticancer agent: a review of its biological effects on various cancers. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1216363. [PMID: 37456751 PMCID: PMC10347417 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1216363] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous chemical compounds used in cancer treatment have been isolated from natural herbs to address the ever-increasing cancer incidence worldwide. Therein is icariin, which has been extensively studied for its therapeutic potential due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, and aphrodisiac properties. However, there is a lack of comprehensive and detailed review of studies on icariin in cancer treatment. Given this, this study reviews and examines the relevant literature on the chemopreventive and therapeutic potentials of icariin in cancer treatment and describes its mechanism of action. The review shows that icariin has the property of inhibiting cancer progression and reversing drug resistance. Therefore, icariin may be a valuable potential agent for the prevention and treatment of various cancers due to its natural origin, safety, and low cost compared to conventional anticancer drugs, while further research on this natural agent is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Yuan Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Dan-Ni Ding
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yun-Rui Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Shao-Xuan Liu
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Fang Shen
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiao-Ya Zhu
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Chan Li
- First Clinical Medical College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Li-Ping Tang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Feng-Juan Han
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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Uchino M, Sashide Y, Takeda M. Suppression of the Excitability of Rat Nociceptive Secondary Sensory Neurons following Local Administration of the Phytochemical, (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate. Brain Res 2023:148426. [PMID: 37257804 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148426] [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: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The phytochemical, polyphenolic compound, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), is the main catechin found in green tea. Although a modulatory effect of EGCG on voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels has been reported in excitable tissues, the in vivo effect of EGCG on the excitability of nociceptive sensory neurons remains to be determined. Our aim was to investigate whether local administration of EGCG to rats attenuates the excitability of nociceptive spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (SpVc) neurons in response to mechanical stimulation in vivo. Extracellular single unit recordings were made from SpVc neurons in response to orofacial mechanical stimulation of anesthetized rats. The mean firing frequency of SpVc wide-dynamic range neurons following both non-noxious and noxious mechanical stimuli was significantly inhibited by EGCG in a dose-dependent and reversible manner. The mean magnitude of inhibition by EGCG on SpVc neuronal discharge frequency was similar to that of the local anesthetic, 1% lidocaine. Local injection of half-dose of lidocaine replaced the half-dose of EGCG. These results suggest that local injection of EGCG suppresses the excitability of nociceptive SpVc neurons, possibly via the inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels and opening of voltage-gated potassium channels in the trigeminal ganglion. Therefore, administration of EGCG as a local anesthetic may provide relief from trigeminal nociceptive pain without side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizuho Uchino
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan
| | - Yukito Sashide
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan
| | - Mamoru Takeda
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan.
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Shi K, Bi Y, Zeng X, Wang X. Effects of adjuvant huaier granule therapy on survival rate of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1163304. [PMID: 37251326 PMCID: PMC10213905 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1163304] [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: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Clinical trials have reported that Huaier granule inhibits the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after resection. However, its efficacy in patients at different clinical stages of HCC remains unknown. We investigated the effects of Huaier granule on the 3-year overall survival (OS) rate of patients at different clinical stages. Design: This cohort study included 826 patients with HCC, screened between January 2015 and December 2019. The patients were divided into Huaier (n = 174) and control groups (n = 652), and the 3-year OS rates were compared between the two groups. To eliminate bias caused by confounding factors, propensity score matching (PSM) was performed. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to estimate OS rate and tested the difference using the log-rank test. Results: Multivariable regression analysis revealed that Huaier therapy was an independent protective factor for 3-year survival rate. After PSM (1:2), the Huaier and control groups comprised 170 and 340 patients, respectively. The 3-year OS rate was remarkably higher in the Huaier group than in the control group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.36; 95% confidence interval: 0.26-0.49; p < 0.001). The aHR for Huaier use for 3-12, 12-24, and >24 months was 0.48, 0.23, and 0.16, respectively, indicating a dose-response pattern. For the 3-12-, 12-24-, and >24-month groups, the 3-year OS rate was 54.1%, 68.6%, and 90.4%, respectively. Multivariate stratified analysis confirmed that the mortality risk in Huaier users was lower than that in non-Huaier users in most subgroups. Conclusion: Adjuvant Huaier therapy improved the OS rate in patients with HCC. However, these findings require further verification through prospective clinical studies.
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Osaki H, Mori M, Oshima K, Shimazu Y, Takeda M. Effect of local administration of eicosapentaenoic acid on the jaw-opening reflex in rats. Eur J Oral Sci 2023; 131:e12917. [PMID: 36749095 DOI: 10.1111/eos.12917] [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: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Although eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) application in vitro inhibits voltage-gated Na+ (Nav) channels in excitable tissues, the acute local effect of EPA on the jaw-opening reflex in vivo remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine whether local administration of EPA to adult male Wistar rats could attenuate the excitability of the jaw-opening reflex in vivo, including nociception. The jaw-opening reflex evoked by electrical stimulation of the tongue was recorded by a digastric muscle electromyogram (dEMG) in pentobarbital-anesthetized rats. The amplitude of the dEMG response was significantly increased in proportion to the electrical stimulation intensity (1×-5× threshold). At 3×, local administration of EPA dose-dependently inhibited the dEMG response, lasting 60 min, with maximum inhibition observed within approximately 10 min. The mean magnitude of dEMG signal inhibition by EPA was almost equal to that observed with a local anesthetic, 1% lidocaine, and with a half dose of lidocaine plus a half dose of EPA. These findings suggest that EPA attenuates the jaw-opening reflex, possibly by blocking Nav channels of primary nerve terminals, and strongly support the idea that EPA is a potential therapeutic agent and complementary alternative medicine for the prevention of acute trigeminal nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hibiki Osaki
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Mina Mori
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Katsuo Oshima
- Department of Dental Technology, The Nippon Dental University College, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihito Shimazu
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Mamoru Takeda
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
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Vanden Noven ML, Larson M, Lee E, Reilly C, Tracy MF, Keller-Ross ML. Perceptions, Benefits, and Use of Complementary and Integrative Therapies to Treat Menopausal Symptoms: A Pilot Study. Womens Health Rep (New Rochelle) 2023; 4:136-147. [PMID: 37008184 PMCID: PMC10061331 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2022.0105] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Menopause symptoms can be debilitating, and the use of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has declined significantly since the Women's Health Initiative. Materials and Methods We surveyed 508 peri- and postmenopausal females to determine (1) the use of complementary and integrative therapies (CIT), MHT; and pharmacotherapies; (2) the perceptions, perceived benefits/risks of CIT, MHT; and pharmacotherapy use; and (3) factors associated with CIT and MHT use for menopause symptom treatment. Results The majority of respondents used CIT to treat menopause symptoms based on physician recommendation and research studies. Treatments that were perceived as most beneficial included exercise, mind-body therapies, diet, and spiritual practices, with exercise and mind-body therapies chosen to treat the most common symptoms of sleep disturbances, depressive mood, and anxiety. Higher education level was the main predictive variable for choosing exercise (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27, p = 0.02) and mind-body therapies (OR = 1.57, p = 0.02) to treat menopausal symptoms. Perceptions, beliefs, and use of different CIT by primarily white, affluent, and educated peri- and postmenopausal females to treat menopause symptoms, including sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety, are driven by conversations with physicians and evidence-based research. Conclusion These findings reinforce the necessity for both additional research in more diverse populations, as well as comprehensive, individualized personalized care from an interdisciplinary team that considers the best options available for all female patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnie L. Vanden Noven
- Department of Exercise Science, College of Health Sciences and Nursing, Belmont University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mia Larson
- Medical Specialists of Kentuckiana, Owensboro, Kentucky, USA
| | - Emma Lee
- Division of Physical Therapy, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cavan Reilly
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mary Fran Tracy
- Adult and Gerontological Health Cooperative, School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Manda L. Keller-Ross
- Division of Physical Therapy, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Christmas M, Janssen I, Joffe H, Upchurch D, Santoro N, Kravitz HM. Menopause hormone therapy and complementary alternative medicine, quality of life, and racial/ethnic differences: the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Menopause 2022; 29:1357-1364. [PMID: 36256923 PMCID: PMC9901179 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002087] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that, among midlife women with vasomotor and/or genitourinary symptoms of menopause, (1) hormone therapy (HT) compared with complementary alternative medicine (CAM) will be associated with higher quality of life (QoL), and (2) race/ethnicity would modify associations of HT and CAM with QoL. METHODS Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of QoL in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation participants using HT, CAM, or both. Women ( n = 2,514) completed a CAM use questionnaire and QoL assessments at baseline and every 1 to 2 years from 2002 to 2013. Associations between QoL and treatment, adjusted for covariates, and race/ethnicity-by-treatment interactions were analyzed using linear and mixed effects regression models. RESULTS During 7.8 (SD, 2.9) years of follow-up, 732 women (29%) reported HT of 2.4 (SD, 1.7) years, and 798 women (32%) reported CAM use of 2.1 (SD, 1.4) years. Overall, neither HT nor CAM was associated with QoL. However, the treatment-by-race/ethnicity interaction was significant for self-reported QoL ( P = 0.034 at baseline, P = 0.044 longitudinal). Among White women, self-reported QoL was higher in HT-only users than in those who used neither ( P = 0.030; d = 0.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.21). In contrast, Black women using HT only had lower self-reported QoL compared with Black women using neither ( P = 0.027; d = -0.21; 95% confidence interval, -0.40 to -0.02). CONCLUSION Comparisons between treatment type within each racial/ethnic group yielded significant differences in self-reported QoL. Clinicians should be aware of racial/ethnic differences in treatment preferences when counseling patients on treatment options for menopausal symptoms to provide optimal care. VIDEO SUMMARY http://links.lww.com/MENO/B33 .
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hadine Joffe
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Dawn Upchurch
- Department of Community Health Sciences, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA
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Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use by the pediatric population with epilepsy in rural Pennsylvania was studied to characterize the prevalence, perceived effectiveness, and reasons for CAM use. This study additionally assessed the adequacy of parent-physician communication regarding CAM usage. A telephone survey was administered to 200 parents/caregivers of children with epilepsy followed at Hershey Medical Center. Thirteen percent of respondents indicated CAM use by their child. Common types of CAM used were cannabis-related products such as CBD oil and medical marijuana. Forty-eight percent of CAM users chose to initiate CAM owing to dissatisfaction with the outcomes of antiseizure drugs. Fifty-nine percent noticed a decrease in seizure frequency with CAM use, and more than 11% of CAM users reported side effects from CAM. Eighty percent of CAM users had discussions regarding CAM with their child's neurologist. CAM use was found to be associated with increased seizure severity (P = .004) and the prior use of cannabidiol (Epidiolex) (P < .001) or the ketogenic diet (P = .001). Increased seizure severity and the prior use of Epidiolex or the ketogenic diet may be used as predictors for the identification of patients with a higher likelihood of using CAM. Interest in future CAM use, especially cannabis-related products, was expressed in a large percentage of non-CAM users. Given the high parental or caregiver interest in CAM, providers are encouraged to be proactive in initiating discussions about CAM and collaborate with parents/caregivers to ensure the safe usage of CAM among pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Zhu
- 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Rea Mittal
- 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Sarah A Walser
- 12311Penn State College of Medicine, University Park, State College, PA, USA
| | - Erik Lehman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Ashutosh Kumar
- 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Penn State Health Milton Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Sita Paudel
- 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Penn State Health Milton Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Gayatra Mainali
- 12310Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Penn State Health Milton Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
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Stie M, Delmar C, Nørgaard B, Jensen LH. Impact of Open Dialogue about Complementary Alternative Medicine-A Phase II Randomized Controlled Trial. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:952. [PMID: 35205698 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040952] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A large number of patients with cancer use complementary alternative medicine (CAM), such as diet supplements, massage and acupuncture, as an adjunct to conventional cancer treatment and care. Some types of CAM reduce nausea and vomiting, pain, fear, fatigue and depression, but CAM may also cause new symptoms and side effects. Therefore, it is crucial that cancer patients receive professional guidance on how to use CAM in a safe and healthy manner. Open dialogue about CAM between patients and health professionals is, however, not an integrated part of cancer treatment and care. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess how open dialogue, including guidance about CAM, affected patients’ safety and health when it was an integrated part of the cancer treatment and care. We found that open dialogue about CAM does not compromise patient safety and that it may improve patients’ quality of life, self-care and survival. Abstract Complementary alternative medicine (CAM) may reduce the symptom burden of side effects to antineoplastic treatment but also cause new side effects and non-adherence to conventional treatment. The aim of this RCT was to investigate the impact of open dialogue about complementary alternative medicine (OD-CAM) on cancer patients’ safety, health and quality of life (QoL). Patients undergoing antineoplastic treatment were randomly assigned to standard care (SC) plus OD-CAM or SC alone. The primary endpoint was frequency of grade 3–4 adverse events (AE) eight weeks after enrollment. Secondary endpoints were frequency of grade 1–4 AE, QoL, psychological distress, perceived information, attitude towards and use of CAM 12 and 24 weeks after enrollment. Survival was analyzed post hoc. Fifty-seven patients were randomized to the OD-CAM group and fifty-five to the SC group. No significant difference in frequency of grade 3–4 AEs was shown. The same applied to grade 1–4 AEs and QoL, psychological distress and perceived information. A tendency towards better QoL, improved survival and a lower level of anxiety was found in the OD-CAM group. OD-CAM is not superior to SC in reducing the frequency of AEs in patients undergoing antineoplastic treatment. OD-CAM does not compromise patient safety; it may reduce psychological stress and improve QoL and overall survival.
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Walia N, Gonzalez S, Zoorob R. A Systematic Review of the Use of St. John's Wort for Smoking Cessation in Adults. Cureus 2021; 13:e18769. [PMID: 34796061 PMCID: PMC8590314 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18769] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
St. John’s wort (SJW) has been researched and clinically used for treating various psychiatric disorders, including depression. Few clinical trials have studied its use in smoking cessation. This systematic review provides comprehensive evidence of the studies conducted to date. Five databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effectiveness of SJW for smoking cessation in adults. The trials included the use of SJW alone, or along with nicotine replacement therapy, chromium, or behavioral therapies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to report this systematic review. Overall, four RCTs met the eligibility criteria, and the risk of bias analysis was conducted using the Cochrane criteria. Abstinence, along with other physical symptoms, were measured as outcomes at the end of the follow-up period. Studies reported variable abstinence rates and a decrease in cravings at the end of 12-14 weeks. However, there was minimal to no difference reported between the intervention and placebo groups in all of the clinical trials. One of the studies reported minimal physical side effects. Overall, SJW was well tolerated. Quality analysis of the included studies showed low concerns in two studies while the other two studies showed high concerns in the risk of bias judgment. More clinical trials with larger sample sizes should be conducted in the future to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of SJW for smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Walia
- Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Sandra Gonzalez
- Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Roger Zoorob
- Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
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15
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Freitas C, Khanal S, Landsberg D, Kaul V. An Alternative Cause of Encephalopathy: Valerian Root Overdose. Cureus 2021; 13:e17759. [PMID: 34659971 PMCID: PMC8493856 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17759] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interest in alternative therapeutics use has increased over the past few decades. Valerian, also known as “plant Valium,” is a popular choice as a natural remedy for insomnia or anxiety. In order to ensure patient safety, clinicians need to be knowledgeable about commonly used alternative therapeutic products, their mechanisms of action, and potential pharmacological interactions. We present an unusual case of encephalopathy due to the combination of Valerian root, a plant with putative sedating properties, along with a natural “γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) supplement.” This case highlights the importance of thoroughly exploring alternative therapies when evaluating encephalopathy as well as the importance of being educated on the commonly used agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Freitas
- Psychiatry, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.,Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Subrat Khanal
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - David Landsberg
- Internal Medicine/Critical Care, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.,Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Viren Kaul
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Crouse Health, Syracuse, USA.,Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
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16
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Jones VA, Patel PM, Wilson C, Wang H, Ashack KA. Complementary and alternative medicine treatments for common skin diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAAD Int 2021; 2:76-93. [PMID: 34409356 PMCID: PMC8362305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments are growing in popularity as alternative treatments for common skin conditions. Objectives To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the tolerability and treatment response to CAM treatments in acne, atopic dermatitis (AD), and psoriasis. Methods PubMed/Medline and Embase databases were searched to identify eligible studies measuring the effects of CAM in acne, AD, and psoriasis. Effect size with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated using the random-effect model. Results The search yielded 417 articles; 40 studies met the inclusion criteria. The quantitative results of CAM treatment showed a standard mean difference (SMD) of 3.78 (95% CI [−0.01, 7.57]) and 0.58 (95% CI [−6.99, 8.15]) in the acne total lesion count, a SMD of −0.70 (95% CI [−1.19, −0.21]) in the eczema area and severity index score and a SMD of 0.94 (95% CI [−0.83, 2.71]) in the scoring of atopic dermatitis score for AD, and a SMD of 3.04 (95% CI [−0.35, 6.43]) and 5.16 (95% CI [−0.52, 10.85]) in the Psoriasis Area Severity Index score for psoriasis. Limitations Differences between the study designs, sample sizes, outcome measures, and treatment durations limit the generalizability of data. Conclusions Based on our quantitative findings we conclude that there is insufficient evidence to support the efficacy and the recommendation of CAM for acne, AD, and psoriasis.
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Key Words
- AD, atopic dermatitis
- AV, aloe vera
- CAM, complementary and alternative medicine
- CCO, coconut oil
- GT, green tea
- PASI, psoriasis area and severity index
- SCORAD, scoring of atopic dermatitis
- SMD, standardized mean difference
- SSO, sunflower seed oil
- TCS, topical corticosteroid
- TLC, total lesion count
- TTO, tea tree oil
- acne vulgaris
- aloe vera
- atopic dermatitis
- coconut oil
- colloidal oatmeal
- complementary alternative medicine
- curcumin
- eczema
- green tea
- honey
- meta-analysis
- natural ingredients
- psoriasis
- shea butter
- sunflower seed oil
- systematic review
- tea tree oil
- turmeric
- witch hazel
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia A. Jones
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Payal M. Patel
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Claire Wilson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hongnan Wang
- Department of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kurt A. Ashack
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Dermatology Associates of West Michigan, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Correspondence to: Kurt A. Ashack, MD, MHS, Dermatology Associates of West Michigan, 1740 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.
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Dolev T, Ben-David M, Shahadi I, Freed Y, Zubedat S, Aga-Mizrachi S, Brand Z, Galper S, Jacobson G, Avital A. Attention Dysregulation in Breast Cancer Patients Following a Complementary Alternative Treatment Routine: A Double-Blind Randomized Trial. Integr Cancer Ther 2021; 20:15347354211019470. [PMID: 34027702 PMCID: PMC8150438 DOI: 10.1177/15347354211019470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer patients and survivors frequently report fatigue, emotional, and cognitive disturbances, which reduce performance at all levels of occupation and make life quality issues a considerable clinical concern. The aim of this study is to evaluate attention and emotion regulation across radiotherapy period and the possible effects of complementary alternative medicine (CAM). Methods: Fifty-seven patients with unilateral breast cancer underwent surgery and systemic chemotherapy before participating in this double-blind randomized study. Two thirds were given CAM (n = 38) while the rest received placebo (carrier only, n = 19). Patients’ attention and anxiety were physiologically tested at baseline, 2 and 4 weeks during the radiation period as well as 1-month after the end of radiation session. Results: Both groups showed similar levels of anxiety with no significant differences at baseline nor post-radiotherapy. Long-term significant recovery of attention performance was observed in the CAM patients, accompanied by a similar tendency in anxiety level, measured by the eye-blink probability. Conclusions: This study physiologically validates the attention impairment reported among breast cancer survivors; also, it depicted a beneficial late-effect of a routine CAM on attention dysregulation. The suggested non-invasive physiological measures can physiologically monitor patients’ psychological and cognitive well-being as well as evaluate the beneficial effect of CAM in breast cancer patients by assessing their coping ability to support the treatment plan. Thus, the results have potential clinical implications on patients’ and survivors’ quality of life. Trial Registration: NIH, NCT02890316. Registered July 2016, http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov
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Affiliation(s)
- Talya Dolev
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Emek Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Merav Ben-David
- Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Oncology Institute, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | | | | | - Salman Zubedat
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Emek Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shlomit Aga-Mizrachi
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Emek Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Zev Brand
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Emek Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | | | | | - Avi Avital
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Emek Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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18
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Schramm J, Uranga T, Birkle A, Thorp R, Taylor L. Improving Holistic Care Skills for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses: Integration of a Complementary and Alternative Medicine Course into a Doctor of Nursing Practice Curriculum. J Dr Nurs Pract 2021; 14:JDNP-D-20-00077. [PMID: 33975904 DOI: 10.1891/jdnp-d-20-00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary alternative medicine (CAM) is an expanding domain of healing practices harmonized with Western medicine to provide comprehensive treatment of individuals as holistic beings. Patients and healthcare providers worldwide are increasingly inviting and employing CAM practices into healthcare delivery routines. Implementation of courses to introduce CAM into Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) programs exposes future practitioners to current best practices for integrative treatment strategies and encourages consideration when developing a holistic patient-centered care plan. OBJECTIVE/METHODS A case presentation of an interprofessional CAM course delivered to military graduate nursing students with a pretest posttest course survey to evaluate student's confidence and knowledge of CAM theory and practices. The format included online modules, evidence-based literature critique, knowledge checks, and an immersive hands-on immersion experience. RESULTS A total of 240 pre-/postcourse surveys were completed by military graduate nursing students (N = 140) participating in a CAM course. Statistically significant increases in CAM knowledge, communication, and skills confidence levels were found. Following participation in the course, nearly all students (97%) agreed CAM is important and benefits future advanced practice. CONCLUSION/NURSING IMPLICATIONS CAM is a compendium of holistic healing modalities increasingly being utilized by patients worldwide with similar requests for alternative care techniques from healthcare providers. Military APRN students participating in a CAM course increased knowledge and confidence, and garnered appreciation for an expanded skill set to augment future practice. Case presentation is compelling for standard inclusion of CAM and similar graduate interprofessional courses into all APRN programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Schramm
- Uniformed Services University, Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Bethesda, MD
| | - Tiffany Uranga
- Uniformed Services University, Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Bethesda, MD
| | - Amber Birkle
- Uniformed Services University, Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Bethesda, MD
| | - Regina Thorp
- Uniformed Services University, Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Bethesda, MD
| | - Laura Taylor
- Uniformed Services University, Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Bethesda, MD
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19
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Nadareishvili I, Pkhakadze G, Japiashvili N, Lunze K. Regulatory environment for complementary and alternative medicine in Georgia-a health policy analysis. Int J Health Plann Manage 2021; 36:1038-1051. [PMID: 33735447 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3142] [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: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
International bodies such as the WHO call on member states to regulate and, where possible, integrate Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) into health systems, to the benefit and safety of patients. Research on CAM regulations in the Republic of Georgia has been limited. The aim of this study was to identify key actors and analyse the regulatory environment for CAM in Georgia in its local and international contexts. We conducted a health policy analysis using a triangle framework of content, context and processes. We used data from national government, professional associations and academia; and drew from primary qualitative data of stakeholders' perspectives and needs regarding CAM in Georgia. The several CAM associations we identified have limited capacities for self-regulation. CAM practices are currently not effectively regulated in Georgia, while the government has no expressed intention to develop regulatory frameworks. Georgia's CAM health policy is currently not compliant with WHO and European directives and recommendations. Government, lawmakers, public administration, academia, physicians, non-physician CAM practitioners and other actors should constitute a national working group dedicated to CAM regulations in Georgia to identify, classify CAM practices; and develop core principles for policy making for safe and effective CAM practiced in Georgia's health system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karsten Lunze
- Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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20
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Jain N, Reddy Kunam N, Moorthy A. Perception and Belief on Cannabinoids: A Comparative Study of Rheumatology Patients and Primary Care Physicians on the Use of Cannabinoids for Pain Management. Cureus 2021; 13:e13756. [PMID: 33842133 PMCID: PMC8022637 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction With the recent increase in popularity of cannabinoids in the management of chronic pain, the inquisitiveness among our patients and health care professionals are probably now at its peak. Many treating health care professionals in their clinical practice come across patients who either use cannabinoids or are interested in their efficacy and side effects. As there is paucity of data and research about their use in rheumatology, patient's self-reported responses and experience of primary care physicians (General Practitioners [GPs]) can guide in expanding our knowledge. Methods Ours was an observational, cross-sectional study among rheumatology patients and GPs in the Leicestershire area. Initial questionnaire was designed by authors addressing demographics, knowledge, experience and perception. This was piloted among patients and GPs and improvised, redesigned and used for the study. The study design consisted of two arms: first arm including GPs and second arm rheumatology patients. Results Arm 1 consisted of 100 GPs with median age group of 30-40 years. 34% GPs experienced their patients inquiring about cannabinoids. 78% did not believe cannabinoids benefited the patients. On a scale of 0-10, the mean benefit in managing pain 3.2 + 2.5. Arm 2 consisted of 102 patients. 16% reported using cannabinoids for managing their chronic pain. The users reported significant improvement in pain compared to non-users (p=0.002). On comparing the perception of cannabinoids between GPs and patients, there was a statistically significant difference regarding awareness and effectiveness (p<0.001). Conclusion With the paucity of data and research about the use of cannabinoids in rheumatology, the patient self-reported responses provided an estimate as to their efficacy. This was significantly different from the GP perception. Disease and drug-focused research is need of the hour. To our knowledge, this is the First Single Centre study in the UK evaluating GP and rheumatology patient perception on cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nibha Jain
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, GBR
| | | | - Arumugam Moorthy
- Medicine, College of Life Sciences, Leicester Medical School, University of Leicester, Leicester, GBR.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, GBR
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21
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Patel H, Nguyen K, Lehman E, Mainali G, Duda L, Byler D, Kumar A. Response to Correspondence "Complementary and Alternative…but Please Not Secret". J Child Neurol 2020; 35:861. [PMID: 32546043 DOI: 10.1177/0883073820932068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - KieuHanh Nguyen
- 12311Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Erik Lehman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, 12311Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Gayatra Mainali
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, 12311Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Laura Duda
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Academic General Pediatrics, 12311Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - Ashutosh Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, 12311Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
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Abstract
Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, resting tremor, and postural instability. Non-motor symptoms, including pain, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression to name a few, are increasingly recognized and often just as disabling at motor symptoms. The mainstay of treatment is dopamine replacement; however, the beneficial effects tend to wane over time with disease progression, and patients often experience motor fluctuations and medication side effects. The lack of a disease-modifying intervention and the shortcomings of traditional symptomatic medications have led many patients to pursue complementary therapies to alleviate motor and non-motor symptoms associated with PD. The term complementary implies that the therapy is used along with conventional medicine and may include supplements, manipulative treatments (chiropractic, massage), exercise-based programs, and mind-body practices. As these practices become more widespread in Western medicine, there is a growing interest in evaluating their effects on a number of medical conditions, PD included. In this review, we provide an update on clinical trials that have evaluated the effectiveness of complementary treatments for patients with PD, specifically focusing on acupuncture, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, yoga, and cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Deuel
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lauren C Seeberger
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tourette syndrome is a neuropsychiatric condition defined by motor and phonic tics with onset in childhood. Many families have concerns regarding potential side effects of pharmacologic treatments, and often have difficulty accessing comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics. Patients and caregivers may turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as they perceive these as "natural" and therefore "safe." Although there are anecdotal reports of an increased use of CAM in Tourette syndrome patients, the exact prevalence is unknown. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to identify commonly used CAM therapies for children with Tourette syndrome at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. METHODS A questionnaire was administered to the caregivers of children (<18 years old) via telephone. The data pertaining to demographics, type of CAM use, duration of use, adverse effects, and caregiver's perception of the effectiveness were collected. RESULTS A total of 110 patients participated in this survey. When inquired about the different CAM methods, 69.1% of the participants reported using 1 or more CAM therapies, and 58% of those who used CAM informed the doctor about their use. Ninety-three percent of those who used CAM therapy reported a decrease in tic frequency. The most commonly used CAM therapies were stress management (44.6%), herbal medicine (18.2%), homeopathy (12.7%), and meditation (9.1%). In total, 46% of the participants said that CAM helped more than medication. CONCLUSION The majority of patients interviewed were using CAM therapies, and a significant portion reported benefit greater than medication. More than half of all participants discussed CAM therapies with their physicians, and 63% of participants felt that their physicians would support their use of CAM therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himadri Patel
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - KieuHanh Nguyen
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Erik Lehman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Gayatra Mainali
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Laura Duda
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Academic General Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Debra Byler
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Ashutosh Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Penn State College of Medicine/Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
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Ueno M, Minagawa T, Saito T, Imamura T, Nagai T, Ogawa T, Ishizuka O. Therapeutic effects of Choreito, a traditional Japanese (Kampo) medicine, on detrusor overactivity induced by acetic acid in rats. Low Urin Tract Symptoms 2020; 12:198-205. [PMID: 32017455 DOI: 10.1111/luts.12302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Choreito (CRT), a traditional Japanese (Kampo) medicine, is widely used for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) and other lower urinary tract symptoms in Japan. This study aimed to identify the effects and therapeutic mechanism of CRT on the improvement of detrusor overactivity (DO) using an experimental rat model. Forty-five female Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into three groups: intravesical saline instillation with normal food (normal group), intravesical acetic acid (AA) instillation with normal food (AA group), and intravesical AA instillation with CRT (AA with CRT group). To induce a decrease in bladder capacity, instillation of 0.2% AA was used based on prior studies. Cystometric investigation was employed to clarify the effects of AA and CRT. Microcirculation was performed using a laser blood flowmeter, and the localization of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The bladder capacities of the normal, AA, and AA with CRT groups were 1.2 ± 0.3 mL, 0.4 ± 0.1 mL, and 0.8 ± 0.1 mL, respectively. CRT significantly attenuated AA irritation of the urinary bladder and exerted protective effects on basal pressure, micturition pressure, micturition interval, and micturition volume. Furthermore, CRT could prevent the excess blood flow and edematous change under the urothelium induced by intravesical AA instillation. No obvious changes in immunohistochemical HIF1α staining were observed among the groups. CRT attenuated DO induced by intravesical AA instillation in a rat experimental model. CRT might impart therapeutic effects on OAB via the mitigation of urothelial damage and regulation of excess blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Ueno
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Minagawa
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuichi Saito
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Imamura
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagai
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Teruyuki Ogawa
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishizuka
- Department of Urology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
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Madzhidova S, Sedrakyan L. The Use of Dietary Interventions in Pediatric Patients. Pharmacy (Basel) 2019; 7:E10. [PMID: 30650554 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Complementary and alternative treatment approaches are becoming more common among children with chronic conditions. The prevalence of CAM use among US adults was estimated to be around 42% in 2015 and around 44% to 50% among adults with neurologic disorders. Studies demonstrate that children with certain chronic illnesses such as asthma, cancer, genetic disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurodevelopmental disorders are treated with complementary and alternative treatments at higher rates. Dietary therapies are gaining increasing popularity in the mainstream population. Although the majority of “fad” diets do not have enough supporting evidence, some dietary therapies have been utilized for decades and have numerous published studies. The objective of this review is to describe the dietary interventions used in children with the specific chronic conditions, to evaluate their efficacy based on published data and to encourage pharmacist involvement in the management and care of such patients.
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Nakajima R, Uehara A, Takehana S, Akama Y, Shimazu Y, Takeda M. Decanoic acid attenuates the excitability of nociceptive trigeminal primary and secondary neurons associated with hypoalgesia. J Pain Res 2018; 11:2867-2876. [PMID: 30532581 PMCID: PMC6241697 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s181032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute application of decanoic acid (DA) in vivo suppresses the excitability of spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (SpVc) wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons associated with the short-term mechanical hypoalgesia via muscarinic M2 receptor signaling; however, the effect of DA on nociceptive trigeminal ganglion (TG) and SpVc nociceptive-specific (NS) neuronal excitability under in vivo conditions remains to be determined. The present study investigated whether this effect could be observed in naive rats. Results Extracellular single-unit recordings were made from TG and SpVc NS neurons of pentobarbital-anesthetized rats in response to orofacial noxious mechanical stimuli. DA inhibited the mean firing frequency of both TG and SpVc NS neurons, reaching a maximum inhibition of discharge frequency within 1–5 minutes and reversing after approximately 10-minutes; however, this DA-induced suppression of SpVc NS neuronal firing frequency did not occur in rats administered with methoctramine intravenously prior to stimulation. Conclusion This in vivo study indicated that firing of TG and SpVc NS neurons induced by mechanical hypoalgesia through peripheral M2 receptors could be inhibited by acutely administered DA, implicating the potential of DA in the future treatment of trigeminal pain. Perspective This article presents that the acute DA application suppresses the excitability of TG and SpVc NS neurons associated with mechanical hypoalgesia via peripheral M2 receptor signaling, supporting DA as a potential therapeutic agent in complementary and alternative medicine for the attenuation of nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryousuke Nakajima
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan,
| | - Airi Uehara
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan,
| | - Shiori Takehana
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan,
| | - Youichi Akama
- Department of Emergency, Minami Touhoku Hospital, Iwanuma, Miyagi 989-2483, Japan
| | - Yoshihito Shimazu
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan,
| | - Mamoru Takeda
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan,
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Abstract
Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) that targets infants and children can place them at grave risk. Our plan is to review some of the major cases of CAM used by parents, and by unlicensed and even licensed health professionals. Complications from CAM are rarely the focus of regulatory bodies, or even the courts. Even regulated health professionals, who have profited by misrepresenting science-based evidence for treatment or prevention of disease, have been rarely sanctioned by their respective Boards or Colleges. This must change. In addition, there is a dire need for regulators, including the governments, who allow quack products and devices to be marketed in their respective countries, to prosecute them. Existing regulations must be coupled with more effective enforcement. Some of these cases have had a direct connection to me personally, while others are examples of just plain dangerous quackery.
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Nejatbakhsh F, Shirbeigi L, Rahimi R, Abolhassani H. Review of local herbal compounds found in the Iranian traditional medicine known to optimise male fertility. Andrologia 2017; 48:850-9. [PMID: 27681643 DOI: 10.1111/and.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The male reproductive function can be influenced by many different factors, including genetic, environmental and socioeconomic parameters leading to a progressive decline. However, the cause of infertility cannot be found in a significant proportion of couples, and even with the presence of the sign of testicular dysfunction or obstructive azoospermia, the main aetiology is not identified. In the absence of knowledge about predisposing factor, targeted therapeutic modalities for male infertility may not be possible, and a wide variety of empiric drug approaches, even with low scientific evidence, have been utilised in current conventional medicine. According to the recently updated reports of the European Association of Urology guidelines on male infertility, the implication of previous recommendations and complementary alternative medicine based on the old literature has been suggested to improve a multifaceted integrative therapeutic approach for this disease. We have reviewed the potential herbal active compounds optimising male fertility, according to the principles of Iranian traditional medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Nejatbakhsh
- Department of Iranian Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - L Shirbeigi
- Department of Iranian Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - R Rahimi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Abolhassani
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Complementary Alternative Medicine Research Group, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Takeda M, Takehana S, Sekiguchi K, Kubota Y, Shimazu Y. Modulatory Mechanism of Nociceptive Neuronal Activity by Dietary Constituent Resveratrol. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101702. [PMID: 27727178 PMCID: PMC5085734 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes to somatic sensory pathways caused by peripheral tissue, inflammation or injury can result in behavioral hypersensitivity and pathological pain, such as hyperalgesia. Resveratrol, a plant polyphenol found in red wine and various food products, is known to have several beneficial biological actions. Recent reports indicate that resveratrol can modulate neuronal excitability, including nociceptive sensory transmission. As such, it is possible that this dietary constituent could be a complementary alternative medicine (CAM) candidate, specifically a therapeutic agent. The focus of this review is on the mechanisms underlying the modulatory effects of resveratrol on nociceptive neuronal activity associated with pain relief. In addition, we discuss the contribution of resveratrol to the relief of nociceptive and/or pathological pain and its potential role as a functional food and a CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamoru Takeda
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
| | - Shiori Takehana
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
| | - Kenta Sekiguchi
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
| | - Yoshiko Kubota
- FANCL Health Science Research Center, Research Institute, FANCL corporation, 12-13, Kamishinano, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 244-0806, Japan.
| | - Yoshihito Shimazu
- Laboratory of Food and Physiological Sciences, Department of Life and Food Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
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Konaç ÖT, Baldemir E, İnanç BB, Kara B, Topal Y, Topal H. The Place of Complementary Medicine in the Treatment of Autistic Children. J Pharmacopuncture 2016; 19:28-36. [PMID: 27280047 PMCID: PMC4887749 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2016.19.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [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: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to achieve a vision for autistic children and their parents aimed at generating interest in ideas such as "Sanitas Per Aquam" (SPA), massage and music therapy, which has begun to have widespread use and to attract attention. METHODS This cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out with autistic children and their parents from February to April 2015 in Muğla, Turkey. The study was began by interviewing experts in the field and by developing a suitable assessment questionnaire. In order to direct the flow of conversation between the researchers and the autisitc children and their parents, the researchers conducted semi-structured face to face interviews in a form that had been determined by using reports in the literature and the opinions of experts in the field. RESULTS Forty two boys (84%) and eight girls (16%) with autism participated in our study. Children in the 0 ─ 7 age group spent long time in the bathroom (P = 0.001). Boys liked to be hugged more than girls (P = 0.01). Children ages 0 ─ 7 years liked bright lighting while those 15 years of age and older liked gloomy lighting (P = 0.009). Except for these statistically significant sex- and age-related differences, no other statistically significant differences were noted in the parameters of this study. Although the result was not statistically significant, more children with mild autism disorder obeyed commands like inhale or exhale (P = 0.051). CONCLUSION Treatment for autism spectrum disorders is not yet fully possible, so many studies are being done to alleviate some symptoms and to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families. As a result of our study, whether touching the areas the children want touched and listening to their favorite music are required to stimulate the brain remain as questions in our minds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ercan Baldemir
- Department of Biostatistic, Muğla Sitki Kocman University Faculty of Medicine, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Betül Battaloğlu İnanç
- Department of Family Medicine, Muğla Sitki Kocman University Faculty of Medicine, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Bilge Kara
- Department of Psychiatry, Muğla Sitki Kocman University Faculty of Medicine, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Yaşar Topal
- Department of Pediatry, Muğla Sitki Kocman University Faculty of Medicine, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Hatice Topal
- Department of Pediatry, Muğla Sitki Kocman University Faculty of Medicine, Muğla, Turkey
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Chow G, Liou KT, Heffron RC. Making Whole: Applying the Principles of Integrative Medicine to Medical Education. R I Med J (2013) 2016; 99:16-19. [PMID: 26929965] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In the past few decades, the public's use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has steadily increased. The term "integrative medicine" is often used to refer to the combination of CAM with conventional medicine. Many medical schools have incorporated didactic content on CAM and/or integrative medicine into their curricula. A frequently cited rationale for these course offerings is that medical students ought to be taught the basics of CAM in order to counsel patients on safe, effective therapeutic options. Schools have also offered these courses to meet the needs of students who are interested in incorporating CAM into future practices. In this article, the authors suggest that the core principles of integrative medicine--holistic worldview, centrality of the doctor-patient relationship, emphasis on wellness, and inclusiveness--are aligned with the goals of contemporary medical education and serve a critical function in the development of effective, humanistic physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Chow
- first-year resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Manhasset, NY
| | - Kevin T Liou
- first-year resident, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Robert C Heffron
- Co-Director, Integrative Medicine Scholarly Concentration, and Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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Gunawan S, Arnoldussen M, Gordijn MS, Sitaresmi MN, van de Ven PM, Ten Broeke CAM, Veerman AJP, Mantik M, Kaspers GJL, Mostert S. Comparing Health-Care Providers' Perspectives on Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Childhood Cancer Between Netherlands and Indonesia. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2016; 63:118-23. [PMID: 26274831 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is common among patients with childhood cancer. Health-care providers (HCP) should address this need properly. Geographical and cultural differences seem likely. This study explores perspectives on CAM of HCP involved in the care of children with cancer in Netherlands and Indonesia. Health beliefs, components of CAM, encouraging or discouraging CAM, and knowledge about CAM were assessed. PROCEDURE We conducted a cross-sectional study using semi-structured questionnaires at a Dutch and Indonesian academic hospital. RESULTS A total of 342 HCP participated: 119 Dutch (response rate 80%) and 223 Indonesian (response rate 87%). Chemotherapy can cure cancer according to more Dutch than Indonesian HCP (87% vs. 53% respectively, P < 0.001). Combination of chemotherapy and CAM is the best way to cure cancer according to more Indonesian than Dutch HCP (45% vs. 25%, P < 0.001). Dutch and Indonesian HCP recommend and discourage CAM use differently. Most Dutch (77%) and Indonesian HCP (84%) consider their knowledge about CAM to be inadequate (P = ns). Fewer Dutch doctors than other HCP want to learn more about CAM (51% vs. 76%, P = 0.007), whereas there is no significant difference in eagerness to learn about CAM between Indonesian doctors (64%) and other HCP (72%). CONCLUSIONS Indonesian HCP have more positive views about CAM than their Dutch colleagues. Both Dutch and Indonesian HCP consider their knowledge about CAM to be inadequate. Therefore, education programs about CAM tailored to the needs of HCP are recommended, knowing that CAM is used frequently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanus Gunawan
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, Prof. Dr. RD Kandou Hospital, Manado, Indonesia
| | - Marijn Arnoldussen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje S Gordijn
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mei N Sitaresmi
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Peter M van de Ven
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chloé A M Ten Broeke
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anjo J P Veerman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Max Mantik
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, Prof. Dr. RD Kandou Hospital, Manado, Indonesia
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia Mostert
- Department of Pediatric Oncology-Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Premkumar B, Murthy MS, Rajagopal K, Nagaprabu VN, Ponugupati SM. Adrenal suppression following herbal remedy for rheumatoid arthritis. J Pharmacol Pharmacother 2015; 6:110-3. [PMID: 25969663 PMCID: PMC4419244 DOI: 10.4103/0976-500x.155493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 04/06/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A patient suffering from rheumatoid arthritis who had extreme adrenal suppression as a result of chronic use of herbal medicines presented with complications of adrenal suppression such as muscle weakness. He also had psychiatric disturbances such as confusion and suicidal tendency. Steroids in the herbal medication were found and hence there exists a need for investigation into their safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balasekar Premkumar
- Department of Pharmacology, PSG College of Pharmacy, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Yoon J, Cho CK, Shin JE, Yoo HS. Changes in the Laboratory Data for Cancer Patients Treated with Korean-medicine-based Inpatient Care. J Pharmacopuncture 2015; 17:20-6. [PMID: 25780686 PMCID: PMC4331984 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2014.17.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to determine changes in laboratory data for cancer patients receiving Korean medicine (KM) care, with a focus on patients' functional status, cancer-coagulation factors and cancer immunity. METHODS We conducted an observational study of various cancer patients in all stages admitted to the East-West Cancer Center (EWCC), Dunsan Korean Hospital of Daejeon University, from Mar. 2011 to Aug. 2011. All patients were under the center's multi-modality Korean-medicine-based inpatient cancer care program. The hospitalization stay at EWCC ranged from 9 to 34 days. A total of 80 patients were followed in their routine hematologic laboratory screenings performed before and after hospitalization. Patients were divided into three groups depending on the status of their treatment: prevention of recurrence and metastasis group, Korean medicine (KM) treatment only group, and combination of conventional and KM treatment group. The lab reports included natural killer (NK) cell count (CD16 + CD56), fibrinogen, white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophil, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin, platelet, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status. RESULTS With a Focus on patients' functional status, cancer-coagulation factors and cancer immunity, emphasis was placed on the NK cell count, fibrinogen count, and ECOG scores. Data generally revealed decreased fibrinogen count, fluctuating NK cell count and decreased ECOG, meaning improved performance status in all groups. The KM treatment only group showed the largest decrease in mean fibrinogen count and the largest increase in mean NK cell count. However, the group's ECOG score showed the smallest decrease, which may be due to the concentration of late-cancer-stage patients in that particular group. CONCLUSIONS Multi-modality KM inpatient care may have positive effect on lowering the cancer coagulation factor fibrinogen, but its correlation with the change in the NK cell count is not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeungwon Yoon
- East-West Cancer Center, Dunsan Korean Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Chong-Kwan Cho
- East-West Cancer Center, Dunsan Korean Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Shin
- Department of Statistics, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hwa-Seung Yoo
- East-West Cancer Center, Dunsan Korean Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, Korea
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Abstract
The question whether dietary habits and lifestyle have influence on the course of multiple sclerosis (MS) is still a matter of debate, and at present, MS therapy is not associated with any information on diet and lifestyle. Here we show that dietary factors and lifestyle may exacerbate or ameliorate MS symptoms by modulating the inflammatory status of the disease both in relapsing-remitting MS and in primary-progressive MS. This is achieved by controlling both the metabolic and inflammatory pathways in the human cell and the composition of commensal gut microbiota. What increases inflammation are hypercaloric Western-style diets, characterized by high salt, animal fat, red meat, sugar-sweetened drinks, fried food, low fiber, and lack of physical exercise. The persistence of this type of diet upregulates the metabolism of human cells toward biosynthetic pathways including those of proinflammatory molecules and also leads to a dysbiotic gut microbiota, alteration of intestinal immunity, and low-grade systemic inflammation. Conversely, exercise and low-calorie diets based on the assumption of vegetables, fruit, legumes, fish, prebiotics, and probiotics act on nuclear receptors and enzymes that upregulate oxidative metabolism, downregulate the synthesis of proinflammatory molecules, and restore or maintain a healthy symbiotic gut microbiota. Now that we know the molecular mechanisms by which dietary factors and exercise affect the inflammatory status in MS, we can expect that a nutritional intervention with anti-inflammatory food and dietary supplements can alleviate possible side effects of immune-modulatory drugs and the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and thus favor patient wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Riccio
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Rocco Rossano
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
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Abstract
Considerable amount of money spent in health care is used for treatments of lifestyle related, chronic health conditions, which come from behaviors that contribute to morbidity and mortality of the population. Back and neck pain are two of the most common musculoskeletal problems in modern society that have significant cost in health care. Yoga, as a branch of complementary alternative medicine, has emerged and is showing to be an effective treatment against nonspecific spinal pain. Recent studies have shown positive outcome of yoga in general on reducing pain and functional disability of the spine. The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the existing research within Iyengar yoga method and its effectiveness on relieving back and neck pain (defined as spinal pain). Database research form the following sources (Cochrane library, NCBI PubMed, the Clinical Trial Registry of the Indian Council of Medical Research, Google Scholar, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsychINFO) demonstrated inclusion and exclusion criteria that selected only Iyengar yoga interventions, which in turn, identified six randomized control trials dedicated to compare the effectiveness of yoga for back and neck pain versus other care. The difference between the groups on the postintervention pain or functional disability intensity assessment was, in all six studies, favoring the yoga group, which projected a decrease in back and neck pain. Overall six studies with 570 patients showed, that Iyengar yoga is an effective means for both back and neck pain in comparison to control groups. This systematic review found strong evidence for short-term effectiveness, but little evidence for long-term effectiveness of yoga for chronic spine pain in the patient-centered outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith Meszaros Crow
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emilien Jeannot
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alison Trewhela
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
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Itoh H, Mukaiyama T, Goto T, Hata K, Azuma K, Tsuka T, Osaki T, Imagawa T, Okamoto Y. Non-surgical treatment of canine oral malignant melanoma: A case study of the application of complementary alternative medicine. Oncol Lett 2014; 7:1829-1830. [PMID: 24932241 PMCID: PMC4049709 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2014.2041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This report describes a dog with a clinical stage III oral malignant melanoma that was treated with complementary alternative medicine (CAM). The CAM included high temperature hyperthermia, dendritic cell therapy and lupeol injections. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy were not performed. Two months after the start of treatment, the tumor disappeared and after six months, the follow-up examinations revealed no recurrence or metastasis of the tumor. Quality of life (QOL) of the dog was maintained; therefore, the application of CAM may be an effective treatment for canine oral malignant melanoma. The effective application of CAM has the potential to prolong life and maintain an excellent QOL for pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyasu Itoh
- Kamo Animal Clinic, Saijyocho, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima 739-0044, Japan
| | | | - Takahiro Goto
- Sakamoto Bio Co. Ltd., Yuuwa-Memeki, Akita 010-1233, Japan
| | - Keishi Hata
- Institute of Food and Brewing, Akita Prefectural Agricultural, Forestry and Fisheries Research Center, Arayamachi, Akita 010-1623, Japan
| | - Kazuo Azuma
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Koyama-Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Takashi Tsuka
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Koyama-Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Osaki
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Koyama-Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Imagawa
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Koyama-Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Okamoto
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Koyama-Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
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Gallinger Z, Bressler B, Devlin SM, Plamondon S, Nguyen GC. A survey of perceptions and practices of complementary alternative medicine among Canadian gastroenterologists. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 28:45-9. [PMID: 24212913 DOI: 10.1155/2014/632627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a high prevalence of complementary alternative medicine (CAM) use among inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, there is a dearth of information about the attitudes and perceptions of CAM among the gastroenterologists who treat these patients. OBJECTIVE To characterize the beliefs, perceptions and practices of gastroenterologists toward CAM use in patients with IBD. METHODS A web-based survey was sent to member gastroenterologists of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. The survey included multiple-choice and Likert scale questions that queried physician knowledge and perceptions of CAM and their willingness to discuss CAM with patients. RESULTS Fifty-three per cent of respondents considered themselves to be IBD subspecialists. The majority (86%) of gastroenterologists reported that less than one-half of their patient population had mentioned the use of CAM. Only 8% of physicians reported initiating a conversation about CAM in the majority of their patient encounters. Approximately one-half (51%) of respondents were comfortable with discussing CAM with their patients, with lack of knowledge being cited as the most common reason for discomfort with the topic. Most gastroenterologists (79%) reported no formal education in CAM. While there was uncertainty as to whether CAM interfered with conventional medications, most gastroenterologists believed it could be effective as an adjunct treatment. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that gastroenterologists were hesitant to initiate discussions about CAM with patients. Nearly one-half were uncomfortable or only somewhat comfortable with the topic, and most may benefit from CAM educational programs. Interestingly, most respondents appeared to be receptive to CAM as adjunct therapy alongside conventional IBD treatment.
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Ben-Arye E, Polliack A, Schiff E, Tadmor T, Samuels N. Advising patients on the use of non-herbal nutritional supplements during cancer therapy: a need for doctor-patient communication. J Pain Symptom Manage 2013; 46:887-96. [PMID: 23707384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 12/09/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Many cancer patients are using non-herbal nutritional supplements (NHNS), often without informing their oncologists. OBJECTIVES To review the literature and summarize the beneficial effects and safety of NHNS in the prevention and reduction of treatment-related symptoms. METHODS Databases were searched for randomized, controlled clinical trials (Jadad score ≥ 2) using AltHealthWatch, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, MEDLINE, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Integrative Medicine Service Database, Natural Standard Database, and PubMed. The key words searched were the following: alternative and/or complementary medicine, nutritional and/or dietary supplements, quality of life, symptoms and/or side effects, specific toxicities (e.g., neuropathy, mucositis), and specific supplements (e.g., vitamin E, glutamine, etc.). RESULTS A number of NHNS products were found to be effective. The incidence and severity of peripheral sensory neuropathy associated with taxane-agents such as paclitaxel can be reduced with vitamin E, glutamine, and acetyl-L-carnitine. Vitamin E and glutamine also have been shown to reduce oral mucositis resulting from radiation and chemotherapy, and glutamine and probiotics can reduce chemotherapy-induced diarrhea. CONCLUSION There is a need to develop an open and nonjudgmental dialogue between oncologists and cancer patients, addressing the needs of the patient while dealing with issues related to the efficacy and safety of these products. Referral of patients to an integrative medicine consultant may help achieve these goals, providing both parties with the option of reaching an informed and respectful decision about treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Integrative Oncology Program, The Oncology Service, Lin Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Haifa, Israel; Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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Al-Zahim AA, Al-Malki NY, Al-Abdulkarim FM, Al-Sofayan SA, Abunab HA, Abdo AA. Use of alternative medicine by Saudi liver disease patients attending a tertiary care center: prevalence and attitudes. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:75-80. [PMID: 23481133 PMCID: PMC3632014 DOI: 10.4103/1319-3767.108477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Complementary alternative medicine (CAM) covers many types of treatments and procedures that are usually not included in conventional medicine and are used in addition to physician-prescribed drugs to "complement" treatment. Although liver disease is prevalent in Saudi Arabia, not much is known about CAM use among Saudi liver disease patients. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of CAM use in these patients and their attitudes toward it. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients were recruited randomly from a tertiary care hepatology clinic at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from February 4 to March 20, 2012. A four-page questionnaire was used to interview patients. RESULTS Of all the 232 participants surveyed, 55.6% have used or are using CAM to treat their liver disease with 45.0% of CAM users stating that they believe it has a positive effect on their treatment. Honey was the most used CAM treatment among the participants (39.0%). Herb use was represented by 31.8% of all users, while 13.5% used bloodletting as a treatment. Cautery was the least used CAM method (3.4%). Nearly 76.6% of CAM users were satisfied with using alternative treatments to help control their disease. Nearly 69.4% of users and nonusers stated that they believe CAM treatments to have numerous beneficial effects. Nearly 60.5% of CAM users stated that their physician had no knowledge of their CAM use. Of the factors included in linear multivariate regression analysis (including: Age, gender, and family CAM use, among other socioeconomic factors) only family CAM use was considered a significant independent factor affecting participants CAM use (Beta = 0.582, 95% CI: 0.372-0.754, P = 0.0001). CONCLUSION More than half of the patients have reported CAM use. Overall, more than two-thirds of the entire sample believed that CAM treatments have numerous health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A. Al-Zahim
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nawaf Y. Al-Malki
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal M. Al-Abdulkarim
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salman A. Al-Sofayan
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hossam A. Abunab
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman A. Abdo
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Ayman A. Abdo, Department of Medicine, King Saud University, Liver Disease Research Center, P.O. Box 2925 (59) Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia, E-mail:
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Jayadevappa R, Johnson JC, Bloom BS, Nidich S, Desai S, Chhatre S, Raziano DB, Schneider R. Effectiveness of transcendental meditation on functional capacity and quality of life of African Americans with congestive heart failure: a randomized control study. Ethn Dis 2007; 17:72-7. [PMID: 17274213 PMCID: PMC2048830] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of a Transcendental Meditation (TM) stress reduction program for African Americans with congestive heart failure (CHF). DESIGN Randomized, controlled study PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTION We recruited 23 African American patients > or = 55 years of age who were recently hospitalized with New York Heart Association class II or III CHF and with an ejection fraction of < .40. Participants were randomized to either TM or health education (HE) group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measure was six-minute walk test; secondary outcomes were generic and disease-specific health-related quality of life, quality of well being, perceived stress, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), rehospitalizations, brain natriuretic peptide, and cortisol. Changes in outcomes from baseline to three and six months after treatment were analyzed by using repeated measures analysis of variance, covarying for baseline score. RESULTS For the primary outcome of functional capacity, the TM group significantly improved on the six-minute walk test from baseline to six months after treatment compared to the HE group (P = .034). On the secondary outcome measures, the TM group showed improvements in SF-36 subscales and total score on the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure scale. On the CES-D, the TM group showed significant decrease from baseline to six months compared to the HE group (P = .03). Also, the TM group had fewer rehospitalizations during the six months of followup. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that TM can be effective in improving the quality of life and functional capacity of African American CHF patients. Further validation of outcomes is planned via a large, multicenter trial with long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravishankar Jayadevappa
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 224, Ralston-Penn Center, 3615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-2676, USA.
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