Şeyma Şimşirgil KARA, Çetin ÇOBAN, Huriye Demet CABAR, Binhan KOYUNCUĞLU, Şeyma Soyanıt ERASLAN, Vafa GULIYEVA
Comprehensive Medicine - 2026;18(3):235-242
Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among parents visiting a pediatric outpatient clinic at a state hospital in Türkiye. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a 20-question survey developed by the researchers. The participants were parents who brought their children to the clinic for any reason and consented to participate. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26. Descriptive statistics, frequency, percentage, and chi-square tests were used. Results: A total of 348 parents participated, with 85.6% (n=298) female and 14.4% (n=50) male. The most commonly known CAM methods were massage, cupping, herbal treatments, and leech therapy. The main source of CAM information was family and friends (47.1%), while healthcare professionals were the least common source (11.5%). CAM methods had been used by 80.5% of the participants on their children, mostly for issues such as constipation, coughing, and sore throat. The primary reason for CAM use was ease of access. Most parents reported using CAM rarely, observed partial benefits, and were likely to recommend it to others. Conclusion: CAM practices like massage, cupping, and herbal remedies are widely known and used by parents, typically alongside conventional treatment. This use is influenced mainly by informal sources. CAM methods are perceived as partially beneficial and are mostly used occasionally. Proper evaluation and integration of CAM into medical treatment can enhance safety and effectiveness, promoting a more holistic approach to child healthcare.
