Thilo Kroll, PhD¹, Joerg Klewer, MD PhD², and Joachim Kugler². (1) Center for Health and Disability Research, National Rehabilitation Hospital, 102 Irving St., NW, Washington, DC 20010-2949, 202-466-1915, thilo.kroll@medstar.net, (2) Public Health, Dresden Medical School, IMIB-Fetscherstr. 74, Dresden, 01307, Germany

Background. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating neurological condition that affects approximately 100,000 people in Germany and 300,000 in North America. In this paper, we will present survey findings from research in the United States and Germany about their access to and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Methods. In the United States and Germany data were collected using structured mail surveys (response rate: US: 89.7%; Germany: 62%). The US sample included 161 (Mdn age 51 years; 73% female), the German sample 701 (Mdn age 50 years; 74% female) individuals with MS.

Results. Fifty-one percent of German and 39.8% of US respondents used CAM to treat symptoms associated with MS. Participants in the US samples had on average seven CAM interventions in the past 12 months. Individuals with household incomes of less than $20,000 were significantly less likely to use CAM in both countries. There were no significant differences between CAM and Non-CAM users with regard to perceived health status, severity of impairment, and emotional well-being. Limited health care coverage and high costs were the main reasons for not using CAM. Among the different therapies, vitamin and antioxidant substances were the most frequently used.

Conclusions. US and German study participants report similar experiences with CAM use. However, the use of CAM appears to be more frequent in Germany. Low income and lack of insurance are major obstacles to the use of CAM. Differences in sampling strategies limit comparisons between samples.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. Participants will recognize the value of transnational comparisons of health outcomes and healthcare experiences among people with MS.
• 2. The presentation will create a better understanding of similarities and differences in the use of complementary and alternative medicine among people with MS in different healthcare systems
• 3. In discussing the significance of such studies for the improvement of healthcare services, insurance coverage, and care delivery processes, the presentation will stimulate future multinational disability and health service research projects.

Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: NIDRR; German MS Society
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.