Objective
To investigate the types, cost and self-satisfaction of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in postmenopausal women with intention for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Methods
Total 2211 postmenopausal women visiting 8 university hospitals in Seoul and Kyung-ki province were enrolled in this study. Survey was conducted in personal interviewing. Data was collected and analyzed.
Results
1758 of 2211 (79.5%) participants were on CAM and 1342 (60.7%) were on conventional treatment for osteoporosis. CAM was mostly initiated by choice of one's own or recommendations by family and friends. 28.8% of participants notified their CAM to their physicians while 61.2% did not. Most common (65.6%) reason why they did not notify was `because doctors did not ask`. Self-satisfaction on CAM was excellent, 80.8% of participants answering `more than average satisfaction`. 58.2% of participants answered the cost per month for CAM was about ten thousand to a hundred thousand won.
Conclusion
Many postmenopausal women were performing CAM for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, with satisfaction and durability. More concern and accurate guide of physician are essential to avoid ineffective treatment and economic waste. [Korean Journal of Bone Metabolism, 16(1): 43-52, 2009]
