PATTERN OF COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE (CAM) USE AMONG HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

Abstract

<jats:p>Introduction: Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular diseases worldwide. The frequency of utilization of CAM is increasing worldwide, and is well documented in both African and other global populations. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and correlates of CAM use among hypertensive patients. Methods: The study was conducted at the department of medicine of Murtala Muhammad General Hospital of Kano State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted, on 208 patients, using a semi structured questionnaire on the use of CAM among hypertensive patients. Data analysis was done using Microsoft Office Excel 2007 and SPSS V16. Result and Conclusion: The frequency of CAM use in this study was (67.8%) and the use of CAM was significantly associated with marital status, duration of diagnosis, knowledge of antihypertensives and ability to pay for drugs, p&lt;0.05.</jats:p>