Today, more than ever before, millions of people are seeking an approach to medicine and health care that is more comprehensive, more holistic and integrative, and more compassionate and sensitive to their needs as a whole person. This is particularly true for those dealing with cancer. Changing patient demographics, heightened consumer demand for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) pr...

With the significant and continuous growth of the research and application of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) all over the world, the demand for medical information services has been increasing correspondingly. However, the barriers of accessing and utilizing non-English literature, and the barrier of language have blocked English speaking clinicians and researchers of CAM from obt...

OBJECTIVE To investigate the use of alternative therapies among different racial/ethnic groups in the USA. Specifically, we examined whether alternative medicine use differs for working aged whites, Asian Americans, African Americans, and Hispanics. DESIGN Using the 1996 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, racial differences in utilization were investigated at two levels: (1) the bivariate leve...

Trying to construct a definition that covers a large heterogeneous group of complementary and alternative therapies is difficult. Many therapies are well known whereas others may be exotic, mysterious or even dangerous. Some relaxation techniques, massage therapies, special diets and self-help groups could be considered to be lifestyle choices rather than true therapeutic interventions, althoug...

BACKGROUND Healthcare systems worldwide are changing and the use of complementary, alternative and traditional medicine (CAM) form part of this transformation. South Africa has a large number of CAM practitioners, but they are not included in the official healthcare system. The aim of this study was to determine the perception and usage of CAM among the academic and administrative staff of the ...

M.L. taught me that his religious practice could provide clarity of mind, as well as acceptance of illness. His use of alternative medicine, with its holistic approach, reinforced the ways in which directing one’s own care supports relationships, helps patients connect with higher goals, and helps maintain independence and dignity, especially when associated with a spiritual community or practi...

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