Use of nonmedical treatment by cystic fibrosis patients.
To determine frequency, perceived effectiveness, and cost of religious, physical, and other nonmedical practices, we interviewed all (n = 402; 100% participation) of our cystic fibrosis patients/families [age, 0-45 (median, 18) years]. At least one type of nonmedical therapy was used by/on 264 (66%), two-thirds of which was religious. Most respondents perceived benefit (e.g., group prayer, 95%; religious articles, 81%; chiropractic, 69%). Only 17 (4.2%) invested over $200 lifetime (minimal compared with medical costs). These treatments, apparently used by most patients/families, rarely interfered with medical care. Physician openness and empathy toward patients' beliefs might enhance rapport and facilitate discussion of possible helpful or adverse effects of nonmedical treatment.
Stern
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Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
Canda
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Doershuk
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D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012068:Religion and Medicine