KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES STUDY AMONG COMPLEMENTARY AND ADVANCE MEDICINES USED IN TYPE-II DIABETIC PATIENTS

Abstract

Objective: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) has become the treatment options for the person diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. This survey centered on assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of CAM among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Multan, Pakistan. Methods: An observational, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted Nishtar Medical College and university, Multan from 1st October 2022 to 31st January 2023. All patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus who intended to have routine visits during the study tenure were interviewed. Their demographic characteristics, clinical data, and attitude towards use of CAM products were assessed. Data were managed using SPSS. Results: The study includes 223 patients with type 2 diabetes. Almost all patients had heard of alternative medicine and being used by 58% of the individuals. Herbs (80.3%), specific diets (64.6%), and cupping (45.0%) were the most readily utilized CAM practices. CAM practices were proved relevant to diabetes-related complications [(p < 0.000); OR 2.57], poor glycemic control [(p < 0.000); OR 0.29], lack of trust in pharmaceutical products [(p < 0.000); OR 5.08], poor patient-doctor relationship [(p = 0.06); OR 1.47], being readily available and cheaper [(p < 0.0000; OR 6.1], and beliefs that CAM products have fewer side effects [(p < 0.000; OR 12.32] and can help in diabetes control [(p < 0.000); OR 35.76]. Conclusion: It is concluded that older age, female’s gender, duration of diabetes, diabetes-related complications, and CAM use are associated. It is need of the time that both healthcare professionals and researchers work together for the awareness of diabetes and its complications in general public.