Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) & the World Health Organization (WHO)

By MIAN ABDUL MATEEN

In recent years, interest in Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) has been growing worldwide. CAM includes various healing methods and therapies that exist outside the framework of modern Western medicine often rooted in different cultures and traditions. As more people turn towards these methods there is an increasing need to define CAM clearly, classify its practices and understand its role in broader healthcare systems all in accordance with WHO guidelines.

What is CAM?

CAM refers to healthcare practices that are not considered part of conventional medicine. WHO defines it as a broad set of healthcare practices that are not part of a country’s own tradition and are not fully integrated into its dominant healthcare system. However, these practices can vary significantly across countries and cultural traditions.

CAM is broadly categorized into two types:

1. Complementary Medicine:

 These methods are used alongside conventional treatments. For example, a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy might use Reiki, Korean Sujok or Acupressure to alleviate the side effects.

2. Alternative Medicine:

These are used in place of conventional treatments. For instance, someone suffering from chronic pain might choose Homeopathy or Unani Medicine (Tibb) instead of conventional pain medication.

Types of CAM

CAM encompasses a wide range of practices. Some of the most recognized types include:

– Traditional Medical Systems:

These include Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Unani Medicine, Homeopathy and Indian Ayurveda which have been used for centuries. These systems often involve herbal treatments, dietary methods and physical therapies like Yoga or Tai Chi.

– Mind-Body Therapies:

These focus on the interaction between the mind and body to promote health and well-being. Common examples include Meditation, Relaxation Techniques, Hypnosis and Biofeedback.

– Biologically-Based Therapies:

This category includes herbal medicines, dietary supplements and probiotics, often used to support overall health or treat specific conditions.

– Body-Based Therapies:

These involve physical movement or manipulation of one or more parts of the body. Physiotherapy, Chiropractic care, Osteopathy and massage therapy fall into this category.

– Energy Therapies:

 These involve the use of biological or cosmic/universal energy to improve health. Examples include therapies like Reiki and Therapeutic Touch or those based on Bioelectromagnetic fields.

The Global Use of CAM

CAM is used worldwide for various reasons, including disease prevention, chronic care and improving quality of life. Many people turn to CAM when conventional medicine fails to provide relief or they seek a more holistic approach to healing. CAM is particularly popular among those who prefer natural treatments and methods with fewer side effects.

Research and Effectiveness

Research into the effectiveness of CAM is ongoing but results vary. Some therapies are backed by scientific evidence while others rely more on anecdotal support from society. Nevertheless, millions of people report benefits from CAM often in terms of pain relief, stress reduction or overall health improvement.

WHO and CAM

The WHO acknowledges the significance of CAM in global health and actively promotes its safe and effective use. The WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014-2023 is a key document outlining the organization’s approach to integrating CAM into healthcare systems worldwide. This strategy emphasizes:

1. Integration: Encouraging member countries to incorporate CAM into their national health systems, based on safety, efficacy, and quality.

2. Regulation: Developing guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and quality of CAM practices and products.

3. Research: Promoting and supporting research into CAM to provide a solid scientific foundation for its use and help bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare systems.

4. Education: Promoting the education and training of healthcare professionals in CAM, so they can have a clear understanding of its benefits and risks.

As CAM continues to gain popularity globally, it is crucial for both individuals and healthcare professionals to stay informed about the benefits, risks, and regulations associated with these practices. WHO’s guidance highlights the importance of integrating CAM into healthcare in a way that respects cultural diversity, ensures patient safety, and promotes evidence-based practices.

PAKISTAN Government should also take steps to integrate alternative therapies into mainstream healthcare. This includes creating regulations tailored to local needs and modernizing the education of existing systems like Unani Medicine, Homeopathy, and Traditional Surgery. Additionally, newer methods such as Acupuncture, Acupressure, Korean Sujok and various Massage Techniques should be incorporated into training. Energy based therapies like Reiki and Biofeedback which do not involve any medication should also be considered as part of the healthcare system.