Chapter 18, Problem 1ACTQ

How would you judge the accuracy or validity of complementary and alternative medicine practices?

Summary Introduction

To determine: How to judge the accuracy or validity of complementary and alternative medicine practices.

Concept introduction: Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are the medical products and medicine practices that are not usually a part of standard and conventional medical care. Complementary medicines (for example, acupuncture) are used along with alternative medicines (for example, special healthy diet) instead of standard medical care practices.

Explanation of Solution

CAM therapies are not a part of conventional health practices but a certain set of treatments could be used along with the conventional treatments to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of any traditional practices. Its practices are less encouraged and practicable as its side effects are unpredictable. CAM therapies have certain regulatory and ethical issues, as all of the health and herbal supplements cannot be considered safe. The accuracy and validity of the CAM practices could vary according to the disease, conventional treatment used to cure the disease, and the effectiveness and side effects of the CAM therapy that are thought to be employed for that particular disease. Before choosing any CAM therapies, it should be thoroughly evaluated and discussed with the medical practitioner.