The Evaluation of use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practices in the Treatment of Children with Chronic Neurological Disease

Özet

Introduction: The aim of present study was to search the use of complementary and alternative medicine practices in children with chronic neurological disorders and associated factors. Methods: The prepared questionnaire was applied to parents of children admitted to the pediatric child neurology unit. Results: A total of 832 parents participated in the search. Twenty-five per cent of parents stated that they had been using complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of their children over the past year. It has been found that the incidence of complementary and alternative medicine increases with increasing maternal education level and income level of the family. The religious methods were most frequent modality. Only 5.8% of parents informed their doctors who managed follow-up and treatment. Discussion and Conclusion: One of every 4 children is using complementary and alternative medicine practices. Considering the possible side effects, we think that this question should be asked during routine visits to the outpatient clinic and pediatricians.