How income, perception of scientists, and health literacy shape the use of non-conventional medicine

Abstract Background The use of non-conventional medicine (NCM) remains widespread, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting its practices. This phenomenon raises public health concerns, particularly due to the risk of delayed access to appropriate treatment. The main aim of this study was to analyze the determinants of NCM services utilization. Methods In November 2024, an online survey was carried out among 2,200 Polish adults, providing the dataset for this analysis. A dichotomized variable indicating the frequency of AM services use was applied as the dependent variable in a logistic regression model. Trust in scientists (TRS), health (HL) and e-health literacy (eHL), sociodemographic variables, Internet and social media use, and presence of chronic disease were included as independent variables. Results The percentage of NCM users was 24.32% (n = 535). The regression model confirmed a significant relationship between NCM utilization and TRS, HL, age, impact level, and vocational status. Respondents showing higher TRS were less likely to use AM (OR, 95% CI: 0.98, 0.966-0.995). Persons with sufficient HL were less likely to use NCM services than those with inadequate HL (OR, 95% CI: 0.47, 0.32-0.68). Higher income predicted more frequent use of NCM (OR, 95% CI: 2.02, 1.54-2.65, for the comparison between the higher and the lowest levels of income). Older respondents were less inclined to use NCM (OR, 95% CI: 0.97, 0.96-0.98). Finally, self-employed, students, and unemployed were more likely to use NCM compared to employees (OR, 95%CI: 2.05, 1.47-2.88, and 1.50, 1.01-2.23, and 1.48, 1.02-2.15, respectively). Conclusions As expected, TRS and HL were negative predictors of the NCM utilization. A better economic status appears to increase the likelihood of choosing unproven therapies. Less frequent NCM use among older respondents may reflect their reliance on the services provided by the official health care system. Key messages • The attitudes toward modern science and scientists play a key role in shaping health-related behaviors. • Neither Internet use nor the presence of chronic disease is significantly associated with the utilization of non-conventional medicine.