Factors Associated With the Preference for Traditional Medicine over Conventional Medicine in the Community of Ckochis, Sucre.

Abstract

Objective:To establish the factors associated
with the preference for traditional medicine
over conventional medicine in individuals
over 12 years old in the community of
Ckochis, Red VII, Sucre, Chuquisaca, from
October to December 2023.
Material and Methods: A quantitative,
observational, descriptive, analytical, and
cross-sectional study was conducted. A total
of 214 adults were included, selected through
non-probabilistic convenience sampling. A
survey with 15 multiple-choice questions
was used to determine the associated
factors. The data obtained were coded in an
Excel database and analyzed using the χ²
statistical test and its p-value to determine
associations.
Results: A total of 61.2% of respondents
preferred traditional medicine. An association
was found between preference and factors
such as prior experiences, geographical
proximity, age, and level of education.
Discussion: Studies in Ecuador identified
age, prior experiences, efficacy, and
accessibility as associated factors. In
this study, the main factors were age,
level of education, personal experiences,
perceptions, and accessibility.
Conclusion: Age and personal experiences
are the predominant factors influencing
the preference for traditional medicine. It
is recommended to inform the younger
population about potential complications
arising from the misuse of traditional
medicine.