ORCID
Monideepa B. Becerra, 0000-0001-6075-6270
Abstract
The use of non-conventional health care, such as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and traditional healing practices, is increasing in the United States. Little is known, however, about its prevalence and influencing factors among college students—especially of varied racial/ethnic background. This study examined these patterns among college students using a cross-sectional survey conducted at a Hispanic-serving institution. Participants reported their use of non-conventional care, and demographic and motivational factors were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate analyses. Of the 641 participants, a majority reported CAM use (96%) and visits to a traditional healer (83%), with higher prevalence among Hispanic and female students, although males primarily reported using non-conventional care for improving athletic performance/energy. Sources of CAM knowledge varied, with Hispanic participants citing family history and non-Hispanic respondents relying on self-discovery. While the most common reason for use was improving sleep (42%) in the full population, Hispanic participants reported use for specific diseases. Their non-Hispanic counterparts, however, used such care for lifestyle and emotional well-being. Non-conventional health care is prevalent among college students, with ethnic and sex differences, highlighting the need for tailored health interventions.
