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American Public Health Association
133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition
December 10-14, 2005
Philadelphia, PA
APHA 2005
 
3351.0: Monday, December 12, 2005 - 4:30 PM

Abstract #108399

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use by African American Women

Gloria Taylor, DSN, RNc, Wellstar School of Nursing, Kennesaw State University, 1000 Chastain Road, #1601, Kennesaw, GA 30144, 770-423-6590, gtaylor@kennesaw.edu and Ping Hu Johnson, MD, PhD, CHES, Health, Physical Education and Sports Science, Kennesaw State University, 1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30314.

In the United States (US), few CAM studies have been conducted among African American women (AAW). Due to their unique cultural background, AAW may have a different pattern of CAM use. This study was designed to examine CAM use, reasons for CAM use, and the patterns of healthcare provider visits among AAW in a large metropolitan area of the southeastern US. A paper-pencil survey was administered to participants who attended a one-day health conference for women of color in June 2004. A total of 270 surveys were distributed and completed. Of those, 15 were completed by non-AAW and not included in the data analyses. Two hundred and twenty-two respondents (87%), mean age 42, identified having a primary health problem in the past12 months. Of these AAW, 64% visited a conventional doctor only, 5% visited a CAM provider only, and 16% visited both types of providers. Self initiated prayer/spiritual healing was used most often by women who identified a primary health problem (31%), followed by massage (24%), vitamin supplementation (24%), and others. Reasons for CAM use were to: feel better (46%), have more energy (41%), promote health and well being (41%), and others. Many AAW are using CAM independent of CAM providers. This means that healthcare providers need to interview clients closely regarding their use of CAM when prescribing conventional treatment. In addition, AAW who use CAM for health promotion and well being may also be receptive to learning about and adopting other health promoting behaviors.

Learning Objectives:

  • At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to

    Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Women

    Presenting author's disclosure statement:

    I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

    [ Recorded presentation ] Recorded presentation

    Alternative and Complementary Health Practices among Women and Minority Populations

    The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA