The Practice of Traditional Medicine and Associated Factors in Northwest Syria: A Cross-sectional study

Introduction With twelve years of conflict, the population in North-western region of Syria continues to face challenges in accessing healthcare; including exorbitant costs of services, limited availability of medicines, shortage of professionals. This region also stands as a significant hub of biodiversity and holds a prominent position in adoption of traditional medicine (TM) by the population for centuries. This study aims to shed light on the utilization of TM, reasons behind its use, and underlying factors contributing to its use. Methods Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Northwest Syria. Questionnaire that encompassed sociodemographic characteristics of the participants and their history of traditional medicine use was employed. Face-to-face interviews took place from October to December, 2022. Results A total of 1699 people participated in the study, of them 1174 (69.0%) reported using or having used traditional medicine within the past year. The most common method of TM was use of herbs followed by Hajama. The use of TM was 82% higher among males compared to females (OR=1.82, 95% CI=1.18-2.81). Moreover, significant association was found between the use of TM and the participants’ age and occupation. With respect to perceived mental health, a person stating average mental health status had significantly higher use of TM (OR=1.38, 95% CI=1.02-1.89). Conclusion The utilization of TM within the Northwest Syrian community is evidently widespread. Finding emphasize the need to establish a system for rational clinical practice, drug safety, risk monitoring and incorporation of TM as a complementary approach to standard medical care, for vulnerable population.