Conhecimento, utilização e aceitação de práticas integrativas e complementares entre estudantes de saúde

Abstract

Abstract: The recognition of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) has been increasing in Brazil, particularly with their incorporation into the Unified Health System (SUS). However, their integration into higher education curricula remains limited. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, use, and acceptance of CAM among health students at a higher education institution in Curitiba, Paraná. This is an exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, conducted with 289 students from Nursing, Biomedicine, Pharmacy, Medicine, and Psychology programs. Data were collected between February and August 2024 through an electronic questionnaire. The results indicate that acupuncture, yoga, and meditation were the most well-known practices, while meditation, aromatherapy, and yoga were the most commonly used among students. Despite recognizing the importance of these approaches, most students prefer CAM to be offered as elective courses rather than mandatory ones. Additionally, a lack of understanding regarding the National Policy on Complementary and Integrative Practices (PNPIC) was observed. It is concluded that, although CAM are perceived as fundamental for health education, their inclusion in academic curricula remains a challenge. Strengthening these practices in higher education can contribute to training professionals better prepared to provide comprehensive care aligned with SUS guidelines.