The Relationship between the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cardiovascular Diseases with Self-Care Ability and Life Quality

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading global causes of morbidity and mortality. Lifestyle changes are critical for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and improving self-care levels during treatment. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the quality of life and self-care ability in individuals with cardiovascular disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study population in this cross-sectional and correlational research consisted of cardiovascular patients hospitalized in a public hospital between 1st April and 30th June 2018. One hundred and six patients agreeing to participate in this study were selected for sampling. A Patient Information Form, the Exercise of Self-Care Scale, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Short Form were employed as the data collection tools.

RESULTS: The mean age of the patients in this study was 62.83 +/- 1.40 years, 59.4% were women, and 34.0% had coronary heart disease. The patients' mean self-care score was 101.18 +/- 22.31, and their mean quality of life score was 28.61 +/- 9.50. Age, education, diagnosis and duration of disease, constipation, and CAM use were found to affect their quality of life (p<0.005). A positive correlation was determined between CAM use and self-care ability.

CONCLUSION: The use of CAM in individuals with cardiovascular disease has a positive effect on self-care ability and enhances their quality of life.