Family Practice Advance Access originally published online on November 21, 2006
Family Practice 2007 24(1):56-64; doi:10.1093/fampra/cml058
Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine by older Chinese immigrants in Canada
a The University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
b University of Victoria, Centre on Aging, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Correspondence to Daniel Lai, The University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N1N4; Email: dlai{at}ucalgary.ca
Received 17 August 2005; Revised 21 August 2006; Accepted 17 October 2006.
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Abstract |
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Background. Research is needed about the usage of complementary and alternative medicines within culturally diverse groups because of a growing number of people who use these remedies.
Objective. To understand the prevalence and predictors of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) use by older Chinese immigrants in Canada.
Methods. This is based on the data collected from a representative sample of 2167 elderly Chinese immigrants aged 55 years and above in seven Canadian cities. Logistic regression was used to estimate the probability of using TCM in combination with Western health services (WHS). Use of Chinese herbs, herbal formulas, and TCM practitioners (herbalists) was predicted, based upon the effects of predisposing, enabling and need factors.
Results. The response rate was 77%. Over two-thirds of the older Chinese immigrants reported using TCM in combination with WHS. About half (50.3%) of the older Chinese immigrants used Chinese herbs, 48.7% used Chinese herbal formulas, and 23.8% consulted a Chinese herbalist. Although separate analysis was conducted, similar predictors were identified. Country of origin, Chinese health beliefs, social support, city of residency, and health variables were the common predictors of using a form of TCM.
Conclusion. The combined use of TCM and WHS is common among elderly Chinese immigrants. Culture-related variables are important in determining use of TCM. The predictors identified should help physicians to recognize who among the elderly Chinese immigrants are more likely to use TCM so that a more in-depth understanding toward their health practices and needs can be achieved.
Keywords. Chinese, health services, immigrants, service utilization, traditional Chinese medicine.
Lai DWL and Chappell NL. Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine by older Chinese immigrants in Canada. Family Practice 2007; 24: 56–64.