Summarize at least three of the five shortcomings that the scientific community associates with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

(Answers may vary.)Anyone researching complementary and alternative forms of treatment should consider the following shortcomings:1. Many of the practitioners do not have the years of education given to conventional medical personnel and often know less about physiological responses that occur in the body.2. Some practices are completely devoid of science; hence, the practitioner can rarely explain the specific physiological benefits of the treatment used. Much of the knowledge is based on experiences with previous patients.3. The practice of CAM is not regulated like that of conventional medicine. The training and certification of practitioners, malpractice liability, and evaluation of tests and methods used in treatments are not routinely standardized. Many states, however, license practitioners in the areas of chiropractic services, acupuncture, naturopathy, homeopathy, herbal therapy, and massage therapy. Other therapies are unmonitored.4. Unconventional medicine lacks regulation of natural and herbal products. The word "natural" does not imply that the product is safe. Many products, including some herbs, can be toxic in large doses.5. About one-third of all adults in the United States combine antacids, multivitamins, and other herbal and dietary supplements with their prescriptions. Combinations such as these can yield undesirable side effects. Therefore, individuals should always let their health care practitioners know which medications and alternative (including vitamin and mineral) supplements are being taken in combination.