Complementary and alternative medicine use in children with asthma: prevalence and sociodemographic profile of users.
Research on complementary and alternative medicine use in children with asthma is in its infancy. This study examined the prevalence, types of CAM used and sociodemographic differences in CAM use among children 5-12 years with asthma. 65% of parents reported using CAM. Usage was highest among black, poor, lesser educated parents and children with persistent symptoms. Types of CAM differed by poverty and a trend for differences by race and education emerged. Health care providers who educate themselves on CAM therapies parents use for asthma can then discuss the implications of using these therapies and potentially improve adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
Sidora-Arcoleo
Kimberly
K
Arizona State University College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA. kimberly.arcoleo@asu.edu
Yoos
H Lorrie
HL
McMullen
Ann
A
Kitzman
Harriet
H
D001249:Asthma / Q000628:therapy*; D044383:Black People / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D002648:Child; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000145:classification / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003710:Demography; D004522:Educational Status; D006801:Humans; D011203:Poverty; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors