Prevalence of and Factors Influencing Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Hypertensive Patients in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Background: HTN is one of the most common NCD in both developed and developing countries where more than 26% of the adult populations worldwide have been diagnosed hypertensive, and its prevalence increases with time. Successful treatment of hypertension is important in reducing morbidity and mortality, as well as in reducing health care costs associated with morbidities and complications. The use of CAM is widespread and high utilization rates are associated with people who have chronic conditions like HTN where its management requires adherence to conventional treatment. However, there is lack of knowledge on CAM utilization prevalence and the influencing factors among hypertensive patients in Tanzania. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors influencing CAM utilization among hypertensive patients in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study that used the quantitative methods of data collection and analysis. The interviewer guided questionnaire was applied where a sample of 356 respondents were conveniently selected among hypertensive patients attending HTN clinic at the three regional referral hospitals in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. The collected data were encoded in Microsoft Excel and later transferred into SPSS version 21 for further analysis according to the objectives of the study. Bivariate analysis by Chi-square test was used to make comparisons between CAM users and non-users and identify predictors of CAM utilization where a p-value of ???0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among 356 study participants, 99 (27.8%) reported to use CAM for treatment concurrently with conventional HTN therapy. Majority reported to use herb mixtures 58 (59%), prayers 56(57%), garlic 40(40%) and relaxation 27(27%).There was a statistical significant difference in residence status, religion, alcohol moderation, smoking cessation and duration of HTN while comparing between CAM users and non-users. Conclusion: Utilization of CAM is common among hypertensive patients attending HTN clinic in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. CAM utilization is significantly influenced by residence religion, religion, lifestyle and duration of the disease. Conventional healthcare providers and patients should be well informed on the level of CAM utilization and the possible drug interaction and adverse effects. Evidence based mechanisms are recommended for integrating CAM with the currently working conventional healthcare system.Maste