An update on alternative therapy for Escherichia coli causing urinary tract infections; a narrative review.

BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common type of nosocomial infection and severe health issues because of the difficulties and frequent recurrence. Today, alternative methods such as sonodynamic therapy (SDT), photodynamic therapy (PDT) and herbal materials use for treating infections like UTI in many countries. METHOD: We conducted searches of the biomedical databases (Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of sciences) to identify related studies from 2008 to 2023. RESULT: SDT aims to use ultrasound to activate a sonosensitizer, which causes a biological effect by raising reactive oxygen species (ROS). When bacteria are exposed to ROS, several important effects occur: oxidative damage, DNA damage, protein dysfunction etc. SDT with herbal medicine significantly reduced the number of colony-forming units and bactericidal activity for Klebsiella pneumonia and E. coli. PDT is a promising treatment for cancer and microbial infections, combining a photosensitiser, light and tissue molecular oxygen. It involves a photosensitizer, light source, and oxygen, with variations affecting microbial binding and bactericidal activity. Factors affecting antibacterial properties include plant type, growing conditions, harvesting, and processing. This review highlights the recent advancements in sonodynamic, photodynamic, herbal, and bio-material-based approaches in the treatment of E. coli infections. CONCLUSIONS: These alternative therapies offer exciting prospects for addressing UTIs, especially in cases where traditional antibiotic treatments may be less effective. Further research and clinical studies are warranted to fully explore the potential of these innovative treatment modalities in combating UTIs and improving patient outcomes.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine in vitiligo: a cross-sectional survey.

Vitiligo is characterized by skin depigmentation, which can lead to profound psychological effects and decreased quality of life, especially for those with skin of color. Individuals with vitiligo may utilize complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) due to limited treatment options with varying efficacy.An anonymous, multiple-choice, cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to participants with vitiligo in the United States through online forums. Data on disease characteristics, use of prescription medications, use of topical therapies, supplements, and diets, and perceptions of CAM were collected.In total, 625 respondents completed the survey. Overall, 32.5% of participants (203/625) have tried CAM. Commonly reported CAM include supplements of vitamin D (57.7%, 116/203), vitamin B12 (46.3%, 93/203), vitamin C (27.4%, 55/203), topical Nigella sativa oil (26.4%, 53/203), oral omega-3 fatty acids (24.9%, 50/203), folic acid (22.9%, 46/203), and vitamin E (22.9%, 46/203). Frequently cited reasons for CAM use include desire to try "new" (40.4%, 82/203) or "more natural" (26.6%, 54/203) therapies, "frustration with conventional medicine" (24.6%, 50/203), and fear of "adverse side effects of conventional medicine" (23.6%, 48/203). Non-White participants were more likely than their White counterparts to report CAM use and have more positive perceptions of CAM therapies. Less than half (43.3%, 88/203) of CAM users reported that they disclosed their use of CAM with their physician.Dermatologists should be mindful of CAM and ask patients about their use. Further investigation of the role of CAM as adjuvant therapy for vitiligo is warranted to better advise patients.

Physical activity and psychological support can replace "another pill" to manage cancer-related symptoms in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer.

The management of cancer-related symptoms with nonpharmacological treatment has been proven effective, but more studies are still required to strengthen the scientific evidence. Given the state of the evidence, one might wonder about the perceptions of pediatric oncology experts, healthcare providers and CAM providers regarding the use of supportive care in pediatric oncology. Related to this important question, Mora et al. recently published an exploratory qualitative study entitled "Supportive care for cancer-related symptoms in pediatric oncology: a qualitative study among healthcare providers" in the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies Journal. The data generated by the authors provided new insights and perspectives to the current literature. However, their findings must be put into perspective to increase the scope of the original article and to highlight that physical activity and psychosocial interventions are powerful nonpharmacological interventions to manage cancer-related symptoms.

Evaluation of a guideline for supportive anthroposophic therapies for hospitalised children with acute gastroenteritis - A prospective case series study.

OBJECTIVE: Even though several German children's hospitals offer integrative, anthroposophic medical therapies in addition to the standard medical care, guidelines for these anthroposophic therapies are still rare. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility of implementing a published, consensus-based guideline for the treatment of children with acute gastroenteritis (aGE) with anthroposophic therapies in the community hospital Herdecke. DESIGN: A prospective case series of paediatric patients (≤18 years) with an aGE admitted to the department of integrative paediatrics of the community hospital Herdecke was conducted. Demographic, clinical and therapeutic data was recorded at initial presentation and at follow-up visits. Physicians were surveyed with a questionnaire to evaluate feasibility of implementing the guideline. RESULTS: Sixty-two patients (0-15 years; 22 male, 40 female) were included in the case series. All patients received some form of anthroposophic therapy. The most frequently used remedies were Geum urbanum, Nux vomica and Bolus alba comp. Treating physicians showed a high adherence to the expert-based consensus guideline in their prescribed therapies. All physicians stated that they were familiar with the guideline and used the recommendation to inform their therapy decision. Suitability for daily use and effectiveness in treating the main symptoms of aGE were highly scored by the physicians. CONCLUSION: The consensus-based guideline of anthroposophic therapies for aGE in children was successfully implemented and found to be useful for physicians in clinical practice.

Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients with Rare Bone Diseases and Osteoporosis.

(1) Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has seen a notable increase in popularity. However, there is an absence of data regarding the prevalence of CAM use in patients with rare bone diseases (RBDs). (2) Methods: This monocentric, cross-sectional study was carried out in a reference hospital for RBDs. RBD patients included individuals with osteogenesis imperfecta, hypophosphatasia and X-linked hypophosphatemia, and their data were compared with those of patients with osteoporosis (OPO) and of healthy controls (CON). This study utilized the German version (I-CAM-G) of the I-CAM questionnaire. (3) Results: This study comprised 50 RBD patients [mean age (SD) of 48.8 (±15.9), 26% male], 51 OPO patients [66.6 (±10.0), 9.8% male] and 52 controls [50.8 (±16.3), 26.9% male]. Treatments by naturopaths/healers were more prevalent in the RBD group (11.4%) compared with OPO (0%) and CON (5.8%) (p = 0.06). More than half of the OPO (60.8%) and CON (63.5%) patients and 46% of the RBD patients reported vitamin/mineral intake within the past 12 months (p = 0.16). Individuals with tertiary education had a significantly higher odds ratio of 2.64 (95% CI: 1.04-6.70, p = 0.04) for visiting any CAM provider. Further, OPO patients were significantly less likely to use self-help techniques compared with the CON group (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19-0.95; p = 0.04). (4) Conclusions: Herbal medicine, vitamin and mineral supplements, and self-help techniques were the most common forms of CAM reported by patients with RBDs. However, the use of CAM was generally low.

Use of Complementary Health Approaches Overall and for Pain Management by US Adults.

This study examines prevalence of use of complementary health approaches overall and for pain management among US adults.

Explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine among Chinese gynaecological patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a qualitative phenomenological study.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by Chinese gynaecological oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy and discuss measures to address the existing gaps. DESIGN: Qualitative phenomenology. Semistructured in-depth interview. Colaizzi's method data analysis. SETTING: A tertiary general hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 16 gynaecological oncology patients (mean age 51.7) having undergone ≥1 chemotherapy cycle were recruited by purposive sampling. RESULTS: Six themes were generated. The participants were under-informed about CAM concept and options. They were open to explore various modalities after chemotherapy as long as it could alleviate symptoms. The gynaecological patients with cancer sought information about CAM from diverse sources, with professional expertise being the most desirable way to seek information. They used CAM as a strategy to support continued chemotherapy and for symptom alleviation. Financial burden was not stressed but they had concerns about sustainability of some therapies. Their attitudes toward different CAM types varied. Some were sceptical about the efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: The Chinese gynaecological oncology patients may be under-informed about CAM. They are open to use various CAM therapies for symptom relief and as a support strategy. However, their attitudes toward specific therapies may vary. Some may host scepticism about certain CAM modalities. The patients actively seek information on CAM and treatment resources but prefer professional expertise to other sources. Financial burden due to continued CAM use is inconclusive due to possible sampling bias. Sustainability of CAM therapies is a common concern because of limited resources and access. Education on CAM should be incorporated into the curriculum of healthcare professionals. Oncologists and nurses should educate gynaecological patients with cancer on the concept and options of CAM, preferably with information tailored to patient's individual needs. Health authorities should advocate provisions of diverse CAM services and develop the necessary technologies such as network of local care resources.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine in children affected by oncologic, neurologic and liver diseases: a narrative review.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) consist of a broad group of restorative resources often linked to existing local cultures and established health care systems and are also increasingly used in children with some serious illnesses. In this narrative review, we examine the epidemiology of the use, efficacy, and safety of complementary and alternative medicine in pediatric oncology, neurology, and hepatology. We searched for relevant articles published in Pubmed evaluating CAM use and its efficacy in safety in children affected by oncologic, neurologic and liver diseases. CAM is used to improve the success of conventional therapies, but also to alleviate the pain, discomfort, and suffering resulting from the diseases and their treatment, which are often associated with a significant burden of adverse effects. CAM use must be evaluated in children with neurological, oncological and liver diseases.

The Public Perceptions on Wet Cupping Therapy (Hijama) in Saudi Arabia.

Background: : Wet cupping (Hijama), a form of alternative medicine, is widely practiced in Middle Eastern countries, especially Saudi Arabia. Although considerable effort has been put into increasing public awareness about the safe and proper practice of wet cupping, studies on the attitudes, knowledge, and awareness levels of the Saudi Arabian public are lacking. Objectives: : This study evaluated public attitudes toward the effectiveness, safety, and expected standards of practicing wet cupping. Methods: : This cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire and involved 909 complete responses. The respondents were Saudi adults with a mean age of 30.43 ± 11.4 years (males: 42.1%, females: 57.9%). Results: : The study revealed that most participants believed that although wet cupping is a beneficial (84.6%), well-known form of alternative medicine (82.4%) without harmful side effects (63.9%), it is not suitable for treating all diseases (72.3%) or everyone (66.8%). Most participants prefer wet cupping to be done at specialized centers (84.6%) by practitioners with confirmed qualifications (88.6%) using valid and sterile instruments (88.9%). The main demographic factor influencing participant responses was age, which was associated with more positive perceptions. Female, single, college-educated, and middle-aged respondents had more cautious attitudes. Conclusion: : Our results indicate that Saudis support the use of wet cupping as an alternative medicine for select diseases and that individuals have adequate awareness of the practice's safety standards to avoid potential risks.

Patient-doctor interactions around alternative and complementary medicine in the context of oncology care in a Latin American country.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize doctor-patient communication patterns around the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) in the context of oncology care in Colombia. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using snowball sampling until data saturation was reached. We included oncology specialists and cancer patients who were in active treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following a guide designed for each group of participants. An analysis based on open coding was performed to identify thematic areas. The coherence of emerging categories was verified by contrasting the data set within the content of the participants' reports and existing literature. RESULTS: In total, 10 oncologists and 16 cancer patients were included, representing diverse professional fields and cancer diagnoses, respectively. Communication patterns comprise themes regarding the beginning of the interaction (i.e., patient's anticipations), the patient-doctor relationship (i.e., confidence), the characteristics of the message (i.e., synthetic vs explanatory), the communication styles (i.e., confrontational vs conciliatory), and the closing of the interaction (i.e., continuity vs. end of communication). In addition, extrinsic factors influencing communication were found to be related to participants (i.e., knowledge, cultural background) and context (i.e., institutional procedures). CONCLUSIONS: The low frequency of communication contrasts to the increasing use of CAM. Divergent perspectives between doctors and patients could limit shared decision-making on the use of CAM. Enhanced knowledge and education on CAM for both actors is fundamental to improve their interaction and to move away from paternalistic and confrontational communication, particularly in a world region with cultural backgrounds that influence the use of CAM.

Homologous platelet gel on radiation-induced dermatitis in a patient receiving head and neck radiotherapy plus cetuximab: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Acute radiodermatitis is a significant complication of cancer radiotherapy, and platelet-based therapies are emerging as potential new treatments. MAIN SYMPTOMS AND IMPORTANT CLINICAL FINDINGS: In this report, we present the case of a patient with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy combined with the monoclonal antibody cetuximab. After 4 weeks of this treatment, the patient developed cutaneous radiation dermatitis. Despite receiving standard treatment with corticosteroids and emollient cream, the lesion did not improve. MAIN DIAGNOSIS: cutaneous radiation dermatitis on head and neck cancer patient. THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS: Topical application of platelet gel was initiated on the wound. From the second week of radiotherapy to the 4th week, homologous platelet-rich plasma was applied on the dermatitis using a bandage, 4 times a day. OUTCOMES: The topical treatment with homologous platelet gel resulted in complete healing of the radiodermatitis, including restoration of the epidermis, reepithelialization, and reduction in associated pain. CONCLUSION: homologous platelet gel might be an alternative to standard treatment of radiation dermatitis.

A Qualitative Study Among Healthcare Providers on Risks Associated With the Use of Supportive Care for Cancer Treatment-Related Symptoms in Children and Adolescents.

INTRODUCTION: Although more than 300 000 children and adolescents worldwide are diagnosed with cancer yearly, little research has been conducted investigating how healthcare providers consider risk and patient safety connected with supportive care (including complementary and alternative medicine [CAM]) in this age group. This study aimed to explore how different healthcare providers perceive and evaluate risk when patients combine supportive care and conventional medicine in clinical practice and how they communicate and inform parents about the use of these modalities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 healthcare providers with expertise in treating pediatric oncology patients from 5 countries. Systematic content analysis was conducted using Nvivo 1.61. RESULTS: The analysis resulted in 3 themes and 8 subthemes. Generally, participants were cautious about implementing unproven new modalities or therapies when recommending supporting care modalities to parents of children and adolescents with cancer. The most important criterion when recommending a modality was evidence for safety based on a risk/benefit evaluation. Negative interactions with conventional medicine were avoided by using the half-life of a drug approach (the time it takes for the amount of a drug's active substance in the body to reduce by half). For patients with severe symptoms, less invasive modalities were used (ear seeds instead of ear needling). To enhance safety, participants practiced open and egalitarian communication with parents. CONCLUSION: Healthcare providers reported using a variety of approaches to achieve a safe practice when parents wanted to combine supportive care and conventional cancer treatment. They emphasized that these modalities should be foremost safe and not become an extra burden for the patients. Providers highlighted patient-centered care to meet the individual's specific health needs and desired health outcomes. A lack of national and regional standardized training programs for supportive care in pediatric oncology was considered a hazard to patient safety.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods Used by Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

This study sought to determine complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods used by older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample for this descriptive study comprised 415 adults older than 65 years who completed an online questionnaire between August and October 2020. The study used descriptive statistical methods and a χ2 test for the statistical analysis of data. In the study, 55.4% of participants had used one or more CAM methods during the pandemic. The most frequently used methods were vitamin and mineral supplements (48.5%) and herbal products (37.2%). The study determined that 43.1% of participants did not inform their health care professionals of the method they had used. It is possible that the use of CAM methods by older adults during the pandemic and the decrease in the frequency of seeking care at health care institutions could complicate the management of health problems related to the use of CAMs.

Determining the Relationship Between Intolerance of Uncertainty and Attitudes Toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients With Cancer.

Disease-related uncertainty and the factors associated with uncertainty in patients with cancer have not been adequately investigated. This study aimed to determine the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in patients with cancer. This cross-sectional descriptive study included 351 patients treated in the oncology clinic of a university hospital. All participants completed the Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire (HCAMQ) and the 12-item Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS-12). Most patients (84.3%) said that they had information about CAM, 39.7% reported obtaining this information from their social environment, 83.2% said that they believed that CAM methods are effective, and 76.0% reported not telling health care professionals about their CAM use. Mean IUS-12 and HCAMQ total scores were 46.53 ± 2.05 and 32.11 ± 2.32, respectively, and showed a weak negative correlation. The patients in our study showed high intolerance of uncertainty and a moderately positive attitude toward CAM, and most patients did not notify health care professionals of their CAM use. Therefore, we recommend assessing intolerance of uncertainty and CAM use in this patient group. By identifying patients experiencing uncertainty and seeking different treatment, nurses can support patients physiologically, psychologically, and socially, and can explain the effects of CAM use.

Perceptions of Health Professionals on the Implementation of Integrative and Complementary Practices at a University Pediatric Hospital in Brazil: A Qualitative Interview Study.

BACKGROUND: Despite an increase in use of pediatric complementary and integrative health (PCIH), many healthcare professionals still have an inadequate understanding of such practices and consider their use inappropriate, which might thwart implementation processes. In a qualitative interview study we examined the feedback of conventional healthcare professionals about the integrative practices provided to pediatric patients by an integrative team in a pediatric oncological hospital. METHODS: Fifteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with various conventional healthcare professionals in an university pediatric hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and pseudonymized. DSCsoft® and MAXQDA® software assisted in a profound qualitative analysis using the collective subject discourse and thematic analysis method in order to display participants' perspectives on PCIH and the project in their hospital. RESULTS: Interviewees acknowledged their lack of knowledge about PCIH practices and reflected on the limits of their care as well as on new possibilities PCIH could offer. PCIH was perceived by interviewees as an effective supportive tool of care to promote patients' wellbeing, assist overall compliance, strengthen cooperation between professionals, children and their relatives and hence facilitated general patient care. Since PCIH was implemented in their clinic, perceptions led interviewees to wish for increased PCIH offering and a more profound integration of its therapists into the standard of care. DISCUSSION: The coexistence of integrative and conventional practices in the conventional healthcare setting is important to give visibility to the possibilities offered by the integrative pediatrics field. Regular and constant encounters with integrative practices, as well as information access seem crucial to reach a wider openness for PCIH and subsequently a broader application and dissemination of it.

Change in the Usage of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the Era of Biologics Among Korean Patients With Psoriasis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with long-standing psoriasis who are not treated with conventional medicine seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The biological revolution in the field of psoriasis since the late 2000s has progressed, expecting clearance or almost clearance of the disease. The frequency and type of CAM usage may have changed after these advances. We aimed to investigate changes in CAM use in Korean patients with psoriasis before and after the prevalent use of biologics. METHODS: Patients with psoriasis who visited Pusan National University Hospitals (Busan and Yangsan) between March 2020 and June 2022 were made to complete a face-to-face structured questionnaire. These results were compared with our previous study conducted approximately 10 years ago. RESULTS: In total, 207 patients were included. Compared with the previous results, the frequency of CAM use (67.6%) increased (P < 0.001). Oriental medicine (67.1%) has most commonly been used, followed by health supplements and bath therapy. The biggest reason for using CAM was "to try all the potential treatments." Meanwhile, negative concerns about conventional medicine (13.5%) significantly decreased during the 10-year period (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Although treatment efficacy has increased with biologics development, CAM usage remains prevalent among Korean patients with psoriasis. Therefore, dermatologists need more efforts to improve patients' understanding of conventional medicine, including biologics.

[Complementary and supplementary procedures in the treatment of headache]. / Komplementäre und ergänzende Verfahren in der Kopfschmerztherapie.

In Germany, headache is one of the illnesses that most frequently leads to health impairments and to consultation with physicians. Even in children, headache is often associated with restricted activities of daily life. Nevertheless, the level of care for headache disorders is disproportionate to the medical needs. As a result, patients regularly use complementary and supportive therapeutic procedures. This review shows the procedures currently used for primary headache in childhood and adulthood, the methodological approaches and existing scientific evidence. The safety of the therapeutic options is also classified. These methods include physiotherapy, neural therapy, acupuncture, homeopathy, phytotherapy and the intake of dietary supplements. For children and adolescents with headaches, there are studies in the field of dietary supplements for coenzyme Q10, riboflavin, magnesium and vitamin D, which indicate specific effects in the reduction of headaches.

Complementary Alternative Medicine: A Culturally Centered Approach to Managing Chronic Pain from One American Indian Community.

This evaluation explored the benefits of Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) within a reservation-based, State-certified outpatient treatment provider. The three CAM strategies provided were massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic therapies. The evaluation team worked with a peer recovery support specialist and tribal evaluation intern to co-create a one-page, eight-question, fixed-response instrument based on previous work in the community. Surveys were collected by the peer support specialist post-session with individuals receiving CAM therapies. Surveys assessed self-reported impacts, reasons for attending CAM sessions, and mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health before and after CAM sessions. Paired t-tests were used to examine significant differences in mean scores before and after CAM sessions. A total of 40 participants completed the survey between March 2021 and March 2022. The evaluation found a significant increase in the mean scores for all measured self-reported health ratings: physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental. The greatest increase observed was for physical health (M = 5.32, SD = 2.53) and physical health after (M = 8.38, SD = 1.60) based on self-report data; t(78) = 6.46, p = .0001. CAM sessions positively influenced participants; 83% (n = 33) reported being more hopeful about their overall health and wellness. The holistic approach demonstrated promising results and potential benefits of CAM on overall wellness and belonging. Further research is needed to explore how CAM may be implemented as a culturally centered approach to managing chronic pain often associated with opioid use disorder.

Kidney Cancer Integrative Oncology: Possible Options for Care.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This study aims to review how complementary and integrative medicine (CIM), defined as therapies utilizing nutrition, physical activity, herbs, supplements, mind-body therapies, homeopathy, and other non-traditional therapies, can address the prevention, treatment, side effects, and recurrence of kidney cancer. This review discusses advances and discoveries in research, gaps in research, current debates on the subject, and directions for future research. We queried Ovid MEDLINE and PubMed databases using the search terms kidney cancer, integrative medicine, integrative oncology, nutrition, supplements, treatment, prevention, and therapy. Searches were limited to integrative medicine and integrative oncology. We reviewed CIM therapies related to prevention, treatment, side effect mitigation, and recurrence of kidney cancers. RECENT FINDINGS: Search results yielded 211 studies, of which 87 were relevant to this review. Studies related to CIM and kidney cancer were clustered into themes, including nutrition, physical activity, supplements, mind-body therapies, and alternative therapies. This review provides a foundation for utilizing the principles of integrative medicine in the prevention of and care for patients with kidney cancer and the need for further focused research on the effectiveness of CIM in kidney cancers.

Political orientation predicts the use of conventional and complementary/alternative medicine: A survey study of 19 European countries.

BACKGROUND: People align their beliefs and behaviors, including those related to health, increasingly along politically ideological lines. OBJECTIVE: We investigated whether individual political orientation (PO) predicts the use of conventional (CM) and complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) across Europe. METHODS: We used cross-sectional samples representative of persons aged 15 and over from 19 European countries (ESS 2015; round 7; N = 35,572). We assessed PO based on participants' vote choice in the most recent national election, using expert ratings of party positioning along five political-ideological dimensions: left-right general; left-right economic; Green/alternative/libertarian vs. Traditional/authoritarian/nationalist; anti-elite; and anti-corruption. Use of CM was defined as having consulted a general practitioner or specialist, and use of CAM as having used acupuncture, acupressure, Chinese medicine, homeopathy, herbal treatment, hypnotherapy, or spiritual healing. RESULTS: Participants with an anti-corruption PO were less likely to use CM and more likely to use CAM than other Europeans. Participants with a Green/alternative/libertarian PO were more likely to use CAM than others. Poorer health moderated the association between anti-corruption PO and CM, such that people in poor health tended to use CM regardless of their political leanings, but health status did not moderate the association between PO and CAM use. CONCLUSIONS: The results show that political and socio-cultural views are associated with how the European lay public engages with healthcare and complementary/alternative services, but the relevant boundary lines do not lie along the left-right dimension. People who preferred parties favoring expanded freedoms were more likely to use complementary/alternative services, but likely for other reasons than to seek cures for diseases in a traditional biomedical sense. Concerns about corruption among the lay public may be more relevant for conventional healthcare than has been recognized.