Knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine among university students in Jordan

Abstract

Background: Complementary and Alternative Medicine is an expanding practice worldwide. However, there are few studies conducted in Jordan about Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This study aimed to assess knowledge about Complementary and Alternative Medicine among university students in Jordan and whether it should be incorporated into the educational curricula. Methods: This cross-sectional study took place at the University of Jordan in 2016. A semi-structured questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of 451 students from Medicine, Pharmacy and Engineering faculties. Descriptive and multivariate analysis was conducted. Results: The majority of students (89%) knew what Complementary and Alternative Medicine was (n=451), 70% have used it, 56% expressed interest in taking Complementary and Alternative Medicine classes, 70% believed that classes should be integrated into curricula for health faculties and 77% thought that elective classes should be provided to students in other faculties. Most students learned about Complementary and Alternative Medicine from family and friends (55%), followed by social media (22%), TV commercials (9.2%) and lastly from medical practitioners (8.5%). Conclusion: This study provides a well-placed proposal to universities to consider integrating Complementary and Alternative Medicine into their curricula and offering elective courses for students from non-health faculties.