1. M. Bernstein1, S. Sahai-Srivastava2 MD, C.Lane3 PhD
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) use for Migraine Headaches in Hispanic Patients.
M. Bernstein1, S. Sahai-Srivastava2 MD, C.Lane3 PhD
Year IV Medical Student1, KSOM, University of Southern California; Associate Professor of Neurology2, KSOM, University of Southern California, CTSI Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Resource Group3
Results Cont.
Background
Migraine headaches are one of the most disabling neurological conditions across the globe for which there are few highly effective treatment options.
In order to successfully treat migraines, many patients are turning to CAM, a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. 1
Although CAM use in the Hispanic population has been documented as low2, it is possible that CAM use is higher in the Hispanic population when CAM modalities unique to this population are considered as well.
Methods
Structured interview questionnaires were given in English and Spanish languages to survey a cross-sectional cohort of primary migraine patients at the neurology clinic and emergency department of LAC+USC Healthcare Network and the neurology clinic at Keck Hospital of USC.
Parameters include ethnicity, demographic information, co-morbidities, migraine symptoms and known CAM modalities as well as those specific to the Hispanic population.
Prevalence of CAM use
Conclusions
Preliminary results indicate that Hispanics are significantly less likely to use CAM than Non-Hispanics. Still, it is notable that a majority within the Hispanic group does report use of CAM modalities in general and for migraines. Although more Hispanic compared to Non-Hispanic participants use traditional Hispanic CAM, the majority of both groups do not use these remedies.
The continued assessment of CAM use for migraine relief in the Hispanic population will help healthcare providers more completely understand the prevalence and types of CAM specifically used in this population and allow them to achieve a higher level of patient-centered, safe, and effective care.
Results
Participant Demographic Information
Purpose
To gain a basic characterization of CAM usage and assess its prevalence and efficacy in the Hispanic population as it relates to demographic factors and compared to the general population at large.
Works Cited
1.“What is CAM?” The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. May April 2013<
 2.Su D, Li L. Trends in the use of complementary and alternative medicine in the United States: J Health Care Poor Underserved 2011 Feb;22(1):