AI Summary of Peer-Reviewed Research
This page presents an AI-generated summary of a published research paper. The original authors did not write or review this article. See full disclosure ↓
⚠️ This article summarizes published research and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or clinical guidance.
Publication Signals show what we were able to verify about where this research was published.MODERATECore publication signals for this source were verified. Publication Signals reflect the source’s verifiable credentials, not the quality of the research.
- ✔ Peer-reviewed source
- ✔ Published in indexed journal
- ✔ No retraction or integrity flags
Overview
This secondary analysis examined the relationship between lifestyle profiles and adoption of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) using nationally representative Brazilian health survey data. The study classified individuals into distinct lifestyle clusters based on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and dietary patterns, and assessed associations with self-reported TCIM use including acupuncture, homeopathy, and phytotherapy.
Methods and approach
Secondary analysis of 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey data encompassing 90,814 individuals aged 15 years and older. Two-step cluster analysis was applied to lifestyle behavioral variables—physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet—to identify distinct lifestyle profiles. TCIM adoption was assessed through self-reported use of modalities including acupuncture, homeopathy, medicinal plants, and phytotherapy. Logistic regression models were employed to examine associations between lifestyle profiles and TCIM adherence, with adjustment for confounding variables.
Key Findings
Three lifestyle profiles were identified, each characterized by elevated sedentary behavior prevalence. Individuals exhibiting healthier lifestyle patterns demonstrated significantly greater likelihood of TCIM adoption compared to those in the least healthy profile category (adjusted odds ratio 1.55; 95% confidence interval 1.34–1.81). An at-risk group comprising approximately 25% of the sample exhibited poor dietary quality, low physical activity engagement, and high screen time exposure. The clustering analysis revealed that positive and negative behavioral patterns coexist within Brazilian lifestyle profiles rather than forming discrete healthy or unhealthy categories.
Implications
The positive association between healthier lifestyle profiles and TCIM adoption suggests that engagement with complementary and traditional medicine practices may reflect broader health-oriented behavioral orientations. These findings indicate that TCIM utilization patterns align with more comprehensive health-seeking behaviors, warranting consideration of these practices within public health infrastructure development and planning frameworks. Integration of TCIM approaches into broader health systems may capitalize on demonstrated patient interest among health-conscious populations.
Disclosure
- Research title: Lifestyle profiles and the adoption of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine: Evidence from the Brazilian National Health Survey
- Authors: Leticia Schmitz Nacur de Almeida, Julianne Fic Alves, Gislaine Terezinha Amaral Nienov, Marcus Vinícius Veber Lopes, Rodrigo Weyll Ferreira, Tuane Sarmento, Renato Cláudino, Thiago Sousa Matias
- Institutions: Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina
- Publication date: 2026-02-28
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aimed.2026.100635
- OpenAlex record: View
- Image credit: Photo by Alex Green on Pexels (Source • License)
- Disclosure: This post was generated by Claude (Anthropic). The original authors did not write or review this post.
Get the weekly research newsletter
Stay current with peer-reviewed research without reading academic papers — one filtered digest, every Friday.