Preprint / Version 1

A National Survey of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use for Treatment Among Asian-Americans

Authors

  • Rhea Felicilda-Reynaldo University of Hawaii at Manoa, School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, Honolulu, HI
  • So Choi University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Biostatistics Core, Department of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Honolulu, HI
  • Susan Driscoll University of Hawaii at Manoa, School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, Honolulu, HI
  • Cheryl Albright University of Hawaii at Manoa, School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, Office of Public Health Studies, Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work, Honolulu, HI

Keywords:

Asian-Americans, complementary and alternative medicine, medical pluralism, medical treatment, secondary analysis

Abstract

Asian Americans (AAs) are more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) compared to other race/ethnicities, yet previous studies have conflicting results. Methods: The 2012 National Health Interview Survey data was analyzed to investigate AA’s (n=2,214) CAM use for treatment. AAs were divided into four subgroups: Chinese, Asian Indian, Filipino, and Other Asian. Results: Only 9% of AAs reported using CAM for treatment, with 6% indicating CAM use specifically for chronic conditions. This could be a form of medical pluralism, a mixture of Eastern and Western health approaches. The “Other Asian” subgroup reported highest use of CAM for treatment. Significant predictors included age (≥65 years) and high educational attainment ((≥college degree). Sociodemographic factors were also significant predictors within Asian subgroups. Conclusion: Further investigation of this and other forms of medical pluralism among AAs are needed to explore potential cofounders and risks like underreporting, CAM schedules/dosages, cultural influences, and CAM’s impact on one’s health. Keywords: Asian-Americans, complementary and alternative medicine, medical pluralism, medical treatment, secondary analysis

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