A review of the incorporation of complementary and alternative medicine by mainstream physicians

Author(s): Astin, J., Marie, B. , Pelletier, K. R. , Hansen, E. , Haskell, W. L.

Journal/Book: Arch Int Med. 1998; 158(21): 2303-2310.

Abstract: Background: Studies suggest that between 30% and 50% of the adult population in industrialized nations use some form of complementary and/or alternative medicine (CAM) to prevent or treat a variety of health-related problems. Method: A comprehensive literature search identified 25 surveys conducted between 1982 and 1995 that examined the practices and beliefs of conventional physicians with regard to 5 of the more prominent CAM therapies: acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, herbal medicine, and massage. Six studies were excluded owing to their methodological. limitations. in the value of homeopathy (26%) and herbal approaches (13%). dies are needed so that physicians can make decisions about the use of CAM based on scientific evidence of efficacy rather than on regional economics and cultural norms.

Keyword(s): cam. accept. usa

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