June 16, 2003 – Suburbanites are the most enthusiastic supporters of complementary therapies, while people in the countryside use them least often. City dwellers fall between the two groups.
A study1 conducted in Michigan, US, found that 82% of suburban residents turn to alternative therapies for pain relief, compared to 77% of city dwellers and just 58% of country folk. Yet, the researchers note, members of these subgroups report living with similar levels of daily pain.
The researchers believe that the higher incomes of commuters may have something to do with this, since complementary therapies are frequently not covered by insurance and therefore must be paid for out of the pockets of users.
This study also determined that 31% of respondents did not inform their doctor of their decision to use alternative therapies. Men, people under 45, and members of ethnic minorities are the least likely to discuss the subject with their doctor.
Researchers are concerned about this reality, because of the potentially dangerous interactions that could exist between natural products taken by patients and medications prescribed by the doctor.
Previous studies have found that 42% of Americans live with pain every day, while 90% say they feel pain at least once a month.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to HealthWorld Online; June 16, 2003.
1. Vallerand AH, Fouladbakhsh JM, Templin T. The use of complementary / alternative medicine therapies for the self-treatment of pain among residents of urban, suburban, and rural communities.Am J Public Health2003 Jun; 93 (6): 923-5. [Consulté le 16 juin 2003].
