This study is descriptive and was conducted to determine if there is an association between numbers and types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use and levels of spirituality and spiritual practice. A random telephone survey of 1,584 adult heads of households in South Carolina was conducted. The instrument was designed by a panel of experts (and pilot-tested) to determine the types and frequency of use of CAM, levels of reimbursement for these therapies, satisfaction with therapies, physician knowledge of CAM use, physical and mental health status, and conditions for which CAM was used. A six-item spirituality scale (SS) was created (Cronbach's alpha: 0.78) based on questions regarding spiritual practices and beliefs. This score was regressed on demographic, numbers and types of CAM used, and self-reported physical and mental health status variables. Levels of spirituality were tested for association with specific types of CAM. Use of CAM (frequency and type) was associated with higher levels of spirituality. Higher SS scores were also associated with increasing age and education, being Black, and being a member of a non-mainstream Christian denomination. Higher SS scores were associated with CAM therapies that are self-initiated and self-directed such as lifestyle diets, use of herbs, use of self-help groups, and home remedies. Higher SS scores were also associated with self-reported chronic and/or life threatening diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis, as well as with somatic symptoms related to stress such as digestive problems, headaches, dizziness, and allergies.
Learning Objectives: In this session, the presenter will discuss findings from reseach which demonstrate the relationship between use of complementary and alternative medicine (frequency and types) and levels of spirituality as measured using a six-item scale based on practicies and beliefs
Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Religion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.