GERD can be a highly bothersome condition for individuals who suffer from it. In this ailment, stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux, heartburn, and digestive issues. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available for GERD. However, the question is, which treatment method should you choose?
Currently, alternative treatments have gained popularity among patients. These alternative therapies are preferred because they are gentle, free of side effects, and mostly drug-free. They also complement conventional treatments and medications for GERD.
So, let's first understand the causes and symptoms of GERD. Then, we can explore whether GERD is curable, the alternative methods to treat this condition, and a special magnet-based therapy.
GERD – Symptoms and Causes
Understanding the causes and symptoms of GERD can help you choose the right treatment method. Let's delve into them:
The Causes:
- GERD can be caused by the protrusion of a part of the stomach into the chest cavity, a condition known as Hiatal hernia.
- If the muscle between the esophagus and stomach fails to close properly, it can lead to acid reflux.
- Excess weight can exert pressure on the abdominal area, pushing the stomach contents into the esophagus.
- Pregnant women may experience GERD due to hormonal changes.
- For some individuals, certain food items such as spicy food and acidic fruits can trigger GERD symptoms.
- Connective tissue disorders can also contribute to the development of GERD.
The Symptoms:
- In GERD, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, especially after meals.
- Stomach acid can also reach the mouth, resulting in a bitter or sour taste.
- GERD patients may experience difficulty swallowing due to irritation in the esophagus.
- Chest pain or tightness, which can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack, is a symptom of GERD.
- GERD can disrupt the pH level and magnetic field of the body, leading to increased acid reflux and stronger viruses in the body.
- Vocal cords can be irritated by the acid, causing changes in voice for some GERD patients.
- Stomach acid can also damage tooth enamel, weakening the teeth over time.
If you are wondering if GERD is curable, there are multiple treatment options available. Traditional medications, such as antacids prescribed by doctors, are usually the first line of treatment. However, many people are now opting for alternative methods to complement their traditional treatment.
Read on to learn about the available alternative treatment options for GERD and how they can help in healing.
Alternative Treatments to Cure GERD
Here are some alternative treatments you can try for your GERD condition, which will help you understand if GERD is curable or not:
Change Up Your Diet
Some food items can trigger GERD symptoms. Individuals with GERD are typically advised to avoid spicy, acidic, and fatty foods, as well as chocolate and caffeine. Identifying the specific food triggers can be helpful. Including more leafy vegetables and greens in your diet, and opting for small, frequent meals instead of large meals, can also benefit GERD patients. Some individuals find relief by following a low-acid diet.
Herbs for GERD
Herbs such as aloe vera, licorice roots, and chamomile can provide relief to GERD patients. These herbs contain compounds and enzymes that can calm the irritated digestive tract. It is important to note that some herbs may cause allergies, so it is essential to exercise caution when using herbal remedies.
Take Supplements
Studies have shown that melatonin can help alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing acid production. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, can aid digestion. Taking probiotic supplements can enhance the digestion process and potentially prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
All of these alternative treatments can be used in conjunction with traditional treatments. Now, let's discuss a magnet-based treatment for GERD that has been gaining popularity in the medical community.
Biomagnetism Therapy – The Magnet-Based Magic for GERD
Biomagnetism Therapy is a novel form of magnet-based therapy. In this therapy, magnets are placed on various parts of the body to diagnose and treat different ailments. These magnets create their own magnetic field, which interacts with the body's magnetic field.
Biomagnetism Therapy operates on the principle that ailments disrupt the body's magnetic field. For GERD patients, magnets are placed around the abdominal area to balance the body's magnetic field. This gradual rebalancing of the magnetic field helps heal the digestive tract and resolve issues in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
Biomagnetism Therapy also helps balance the body's pH level. The ideal pH level of the body should be around 7. If the pH level is too high, the body becomes acidic, creating an environment favorable for the growth of harmful germs. Biomagnetic Pair Therapy, with its magnets, neutralizes the pH level, eliminating disease-causing germs and promoting the healing of GERD symptoms.
This therapy also improves cellular function and blood circulation, aiding digestion and reducing inflammation. GERD can be a taxing ailment, but Biomagnetism Therapy offers a gentle and non-invasive solution.
Biomagnetism Therapy complements other alternative and traditional treatments, enhancing their effectiveness. So, now you have an answer to whether GERD is curable or not.
Practice Alternative Treatments with Caution
As a GERD patient, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any form of treatment. Alternative treatments have their own limitations and safety guidelines. Prioritizing safety will facilitate your healing journey. Here are some points to consider:
Dietary changes should be made under expert supervision. Making drastic changes to your diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies and weaken your overall health. A healthcare professional can help you create a well-rounded diet plan.
Herbs and supplements, such as probiotics and melatonin, can be beneficial in calming the inflammation of the digestive tract caused by GERD. However, if you have allergies, it
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don't get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. CAM practitioners often use treatments that are considered “alternative” because they do not fit into conventional medicine's system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies can also be integrated with elements of mainstream medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
Although there is no clear definition of CAM, many definitions include at most one of the following:
- An holistic view that considers body, mind and environment.
- The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
- The belief that illness can be caused by an imbalance in the environment or between the individual and his/her environment
- It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
- Natural products can be used instead of synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
Is there any way to find out more about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine aims to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.
There are many forms of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Are they Evidence-based?
Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. They might have tried conventional therapies but were unsuccessful, or they might want to try alternative treatments because they feel it offers more benefits than the conventional ones. They might also consider alternative and complementary medicines to improve their health. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if a treatment is effective. It could save you money and time in the long run.
Statistics
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
doi.org
How To
What are the different types of alternative and complementary medicine?
The four main categories of CAM are mind-body medicine, natural products, manipulative therapies, and energy healing. Mind-body medicine can include yoga, meditation and Tai Chi. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative treatments include physical manipulations, including acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathic treatment. You can also use prayer and visualization to help you heal your energy.
CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM doctors also provide diagnostic testing (e.g. Blood tests) and can prescribe medication. Some do both.
These four categories are not the only ones. There are many subcategories within each one. For example, within mind-body medicine, there are relaxation techniques, mindfulness training, guided imagery, self-hypnosis, yoga, qigong, Tai chi, deep breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, stress management, biofeedback, and visualization. Natural products are nutritional supplements, botanical medicines, homeopathic remedies, essential oils, probiotics, nutraceuticals, herbal preparations, medicinal plants, and teas. Manipulative therapies can include manual, movement and traction as well as electrotherapies, cupping and stretching. Soft tissue mobilization, trigger point therapy (or orthopedics), myofascial releases, trigger points therapy, neurostimulation, and trigger point therapy are some examples. There are spiritual healing modalities such as prayer and faith healing within energy healing.
Many CAM treatments can be used to treat symptoms and not the cause. Some chronic conditions may benefit from CAM. If used in the right way, CAM can supplement conventional treatment options.
There are many different reasons people use the CAM.
- To improve their overall well-being.
- To manage a special condition.
- To lessen pain and discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief.
Because it gives them more control than traditional medicine, some people choose CAM. They might believe there are fewer side-effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Some people prefer not to use pharmaceuticals. Others still seek out CAM, even though they've had bad experiences in conventional medicine.
People who use CAM often say that they want to know the basics of what they are doing before trying anything new. Many people who use CAM ask questions about its safety and effectiveness. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is often seen negatively in society, most users report positive feelings towards CAM. People who use CAM are generally happier and healthier than people who don't. This holds true regardless of gender, age, race, religion, income level, occupation, insurance status or any other factors.
Nearly all Americans use some kind of complementary and/or alternative medicine. Nearly 95% of Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine at least once in their lifetime. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), approximately 40 million visits were made to CAM providers in 2010 alone.
The NCCIH estimates that 10% of the U.S. population is treated by chiropractors or massage therapists.
2013 was a year that the American Medical Association (AMA) reaffirmed its support of integrative medicine. It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
Despite this conclusion, CAM continues to grow in popularity. In 2008, the number of CAM practitioners increased by 8 percent compared to 2007.
A recent study showed that nearly half of respondents had used CAM to supplement their primary care.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies can be used for pain relief, but many have other benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress and increased immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments draw on Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. These roots can be traced back thousands of decades.
For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated 5,000 years ago and has been practiced in China since ancient times.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
TCM is used for treatment by more than 70% of Americans today.
Yoga is another popular CAM treatment. Yoga was founded in India approximately 5000 B.C. It is now widespread.
Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can ease stress, improve flexibility and increase strength.
Although limited scientific research has been done, yoga may have beneficial effects on sleep33.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
One of the most common types of CAM used today is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines are made up of herbs, spices flowers, seeds fruits, nuts, bark, leaves and roots.
These drugs are frequently considered safer than pharmaceutical drugs and are popularly used by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimates 60% of cancer patients use CAM. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.
A recent study found that 51% of patients with cancer used at least one type or another of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
This is a serious problem with healthcare delivery because there is not enough communication between conventional medical practitioners and CAM users.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Cure for GERD – Alternative Treatments and Biomagnetism Therapy
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/gut-health/cure-for-gerd-alternative-treatments-and-biomagnetism-therapy/
Published Date: Sat, 02 Dec 2023 15:40:51 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don't get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. CAM practitioners often use treatments that are considered “alternative” because they do not fit into conventional medicine's system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies can also be integrated with elements of mainstream medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies are effective in pain relief, stress management and relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
Although there is no clear definition of CAM, many definitions include at most one of the following:
- An holistic view that considers body, mind and environment.
- The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
- The belief that illness can be caused by an imbalance in the environment or between the individual and his/her environment
- It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Mind, body, and spirit-integrated treatment methods
- Natural products can be used instead of synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
Is there any way to find out more about holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine aims to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine is not about curing the disease. It promotes healing.
Holistic medicine includes preventive measures such as exercise and nutrition and treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.
There are many forms of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Are they Evidence-based?
Although the evidence base for alternative and complementary medicine is still in flux, there are many reasons people choose them. They might have tried conventional therapies but were unsuccessful, or they might want to try alternative treatments because they feel it offers more benefits than the conventional ones. They might also consider alternative and complementary medicines to improve their health. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if a treatment is effective. It could save you money and time in the long run.
Statistics
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
webmd.com
liebertpub.com
doi.org
How To
What are the different types of alternative and complementary medicine?
The four main categories of CAM are mind-body medicine, natural products, manipulative therapies, and energy healing. Mind-body medicine can include yoga, meditation and Tai Chi. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative treatments include physical manipulations, including acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathic treatment. You can also use prayer and visualization to help you heal your energy.
CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM doctors also provide diagnostic testing (e.g. Blood tests) and can prescribe medication. Some do both.
These four categories are not the only ones. There are many subcategories within each one. For example, within mind-body medicine, there are relaxation techniques, mindfulness training, guided imagery, self-hypnosis, yoga, qigong, Tai chi, deep breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, stress management, biofeedback, and visualization. Natural products are nutritional supplements, botanical medicines, homeopathic remedies, essential oils, probiotics, nutraceuticals, herbal preparations, medicinal plants, and teas. Manipulative therapies can include manual, movement and traction as well as electrotherapies, cupping and stretching. Soft tissue mobilization, trigger point therapy (or orthopedics), myofascial releases, trigger points therapy, neurostimulation, and trigger point therapy are some examples. There are spiritual healing modalities such as prayer and faith healing within energy healing.
Many CAM treatments can be used to treat symptoms and not the cause. Some chronic conditions may benefit from CAM. If used in the right way, CAM can supplement conventional treatment options.
There are many different reasons people use the CAM.
- To improve their overall well-being.
- To manage a special condition.
- To lessen pain and discomfort.
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief.
Because it gives them more control than traditional medicine, some people choose CAM. They might believe there are fewer side-effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Some people prefer not to use pharmaceuticals. Others still seek out CAM, even though they've had bad experiences in conventional medicine.
People who use CAM often say that they want to know the basics of what they are doing before trying anything new. Many people who use CAM ask questions about its safety and effectiveness. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is often seen negatively in society, most users report positive feelings towards CAM. People who use CAM are generally happier and healthier than people who don't. This holds true regardless of gender, age, race, religion, income level, occupation, insurance status or any other factors.
Nearly all Americans use some kind of complementary and/or alternative medicine. Nearly 95% of Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine at least once in their lifetime. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), approximately 40 million visits were made to CAM providers in 2010 alone.
The NCCIH estimates that 10% of the U.S. population is treated by chiropractors or massage therapists.
2013 was a year that the American Medical Association (AMA) reaffirmed its support of integrative medicine. It recognized that physicians should “integrate scientifically valid complementary and alternative medicine into clinical practice…to meet patients ‘ needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
Despite this conclusion, CAM continues to grow in popularity. In 2008, the number of CAM practitioners increased by 8 percent compared to 2007.
A recent study showed that nearly half of respondents had used CAM to supplement their primary care.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies can be used for pain relief, but many have other benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress and increased immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments draw on Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. These roots can be traced back thousands of decades.
For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated 5,000 years ago and has been practiced in China since ancient times.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
TCM is used for treatment by more than 70% of Americans today.
Yoga is another popular CAM treatment. Yoga was founded in India approximately 5000 B.C. It is now widespread.
Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can ease stress, improve flexibility and increase strength.
Although limited scientific research has been done, yoga may have beneficial effects on sleep33.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
One of the most common types of CAM used today is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines are made up of herbs, spices flowers, seeds fruits, nuts, bark, leaves and roots.
These drugs are frequently considered safer than pharmaceutical drugs and are popularly used by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimates 60% of cancer patients use CAM. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.
A recent study found that 51% of patients with cancer used at least one type or another of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
This is a serious problem with healthcare delivery because there is not enough communication between conventional medical practitioners and CAM users.