1 Assessment Description
Using the NIH website, how would you describe CAM and the typical person who uses CAM? 400 word 2 references
2 Assessment Description
What are the percentages of people using CAM with prayer and those who do not? 400 words 2 references
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly popular due to the effectiveness of its therapies in treating chronic conditions, reducing pain and improving quality of life. This assessment will explore the description of CAM and the typical person who uses CAM, as well as the percentage of people using CAM with prayer.
1. Assessment Description:
CAM is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not currently considered part of conventional medicine. CAM therapies can be used alongside standard medical practices, and the majority of people who use CAM do so together with conventional medicine. The National Institute of Health (NIH) defines CAM as “a diverse group of medical and healthcare systems, practices, and interventions that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine.” CAM includes chiropractic treatments, massage therapies, acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine, dietary supplements, and mind-body practices such as yoga and meditation.
Contrary to popular belief, a typical person who uses CAM is not limited to any demographic group. However, studies show that more women than men, those with higher levels of education, and those with good health status are more likely to use CAM. According to the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), about 38% of adults in the United States use CAM in some form, with many using it for chronic health conditions such as back pain, arthritis, headaches, and stress.
2. Assessment Description:
Prayer is one of the most commonly used CAM practices, with studies suggesting that it is used by around 40% of CAM users in the United States. However, the percentage of people who use CAM with prayer and those who do not vary based on their cultural background and religious beliefs. For example, during illness, African Americans and Hispanic/Latino Americans frequently seek religious support, such as prayer. In contrast, participants in a study by Barnes et al. (2004) found that 45% of CAM users do not use prayer at all. These findings suggest that prayer is an essential part of CAM practices for some groups of individuals, while others prefer not to incorporate it into their therapy.
In conclusion, CAM therapies and practices are becoming increasingly popular among people of different ages and backgrounds. Although the typical person who uses CAM is not limited to any particular demographic, women and higher-educated individuals are more likely to use CAM. Additionally, prayer is a common CAM practice, yet the percentage of people using CAM with prayer and those who do not vary based on cultural and religious beliefs. Understanding the diverse characteristics and preferences of CAM users enhances health care providers’ ability to provide comprehensive care that incorporates both standard medical practices and CAM therapies.
References:
Barnes, P. M., Powell-Griner, E., McFann, K., & Nahin, R. L. (2004). Complementary and alternative medicine use among adults. Health, United States, 2002, 1(343), 1–19.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)? Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name
