Exploring Perceptions of Alternative Medicine: A Cross-Sectional Study Among University Medical Students and Faculty in the UAE

Background: The growing popularity of alternative medicine, including herbal remedies, nutraceuticals, and homeopathy, reflects a shift toward holistic, patient-centered healthcare practices. In the UAE, cultural factors and health awareness have driven increased acceptance and utilization of these therapies. Objectives: The study aimed to document the perceptions and attitudes of university medical students and faculty towards the use of alternative medicine in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: A university-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) over six months following ethical approval. The study population included consenting undergraduate students, faculty, and staff above 18 years from college of Medicine, college of Pharmacy and college of Nursing of RAKMHSU. Using a population-pro-portionate sampling method, 220 participants were selected, including 27 faculty and staff and 205 students. Results: In our study, significant difference was observed between faculties and students regarding perceived knowledge of nutraceuticals and homeopathy. A statistically significant difference was ob-served between students of college of Medicine and other colleges of the university regarding per-ceived knowledge of alternative medicine. 41 % of the study participants reported current use of any form of alternative medicine, with no statistically significant difference between faculty and students Conclusion: This study offers insights into alternative medicine attitudes, informing potential inter-ventions in medical education. The study participants view alternative medicine as a substitute for allopathic medicine, citing natural sources and fewer side effects. These findings underscore the im-portance of raising awareness about the prudent use of alternative medicine to promote patient-cen-tered care and healthcare innovation.