Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) Among Diabetic Patients in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is a popular practice among Saudis. CAM refers to drugs and medical procedures that doctors do not typically employ.

Objective: The study's goal was to determine the prevalence of CAM and the most prevalent form used among patients with diabetes in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Online questionnaires were employed between March to July 2023 to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, information about diabetes, knowledge and use of CAM, and the different types of herbal supplements used.

Results: Of the 386 patients, 54.1% were males, 45.9% were aged between 46 and 60 years old, and 45.9% had heard of CAM. The most popular CAM treatment for diabetes was biologically based, and the most common reason for using CAM was its accessibility (27.1%). The majority (82.1%) of diabetic patients reported using CAM as a treatment. Independent predictors of CAM use were diabetes complications, having heard of CAM, and social media.

Conclusion: CAM use has a high prevalence in the treatment of diabetes. Independent predictors of CAM use were a shorter disease duration, diabetes complications, having heard of CAM, and social media. To avoid negative and unnecessary side effects, patients must be informed about CAM use.