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Use of Alternative Medicine for Weight Loss Among Mexican-American Women

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Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for weight loss among Mexican-American women. Cross-sectional survey of different CAM modalities, including traditional Mexican medicine therapies. The sample was drawn from women participating in a weight-loss program in Portland, Oregon. Sample consisted of 31 adult Mexican-American women. Most respondents reported using some form of CAM for weight loss, with most reporting using herbs and teas (70 %), home remedies (61 %) and massage (55 %). Mexican-American women report using a wide range of CAM therapies for weight loss. Understanding their patterns of use will enhance cultural competence of health care professionals and help address their medical needs.

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Acknowledgments

This study was supported by grant (5R01AT003928) from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, 3800 N. Interstate Ave., Portland, OR, 97227-1110, USA

    Nangel M. Lindberg, Victor J. Stevens, Charles Elder, Kristine Funk & Lynn DeBar

Authors
  1. Nangel M. Lindberg
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  2. Victor J. Stevens
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  3. Charles Elder
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  4. Kristine Funk
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  5. Lynn DeBar
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Correspondence to Nangel M. Lindberg.

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Lindberg, N.M., Stevens, V.J., Elder, C. et al. Use of Alternative Medicine for Weight Loss Among Mexican-American Women. J Immigrant Minority Health 15, 982–985 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-012-9674-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-012-9674-7

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