Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Immigrant Asian Indians and its Association with Health Behaviors, Supplement Use, and Access to Care

INTRODUCTION: Asian Americans use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) at a high rate. This national study on Asian Indians, the 3rd largest Asian American subgroup in the US, examined the association of acculturation, access to health care, health promotion behaviors, supplement and CAM usage. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey of 1826 adults in six states with higher concentration of Asian Indians. RESULTS: Mean age and years lived in the US was 45.7 ± 12.8 and 16.6 ± 11.1 years respectively. The majority of the respondents were first generation immigrants, college graduates, married, and employed for wages. Modal income was $75,000 to $100,000. Nearly one quarter of Asian Indians (22%) used at least one type of CAM; most common CAM was Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and herbal medicine. Number of years lived in the United States, a proxy measure of acculturation, self-reported poor physical or mental health status, and access to health care was unrelated to any CAM use among the respondents. However, older respondents, individuals who used vitamin supplements and those from lower income category reported higher use of CAM. A positive association was noted among CAM use and health promotion behaviors (interpersonal relationships, nutrition, health responsibility, physical activity, and stress management). CONCLUSIONS: CAM use varies by income, age, health promotion behaviors, and supplement use among Asian Indians living in the United States. Differences in health behaviors and cultural beliefs should be considered to predict the patterns of CAM use in this ethnic subgroup and also be factored into patient education.