A Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Cupping Therapy among Omani Population in Muscat Region-Oman Cupping Knowledge in Oman
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Abstract
Background: Cupping therapy (CT) is a longstanding complementary and alternative medicine widely practiced in Oman's Muscat region. This study was undertaken to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of CT among the Omani population and to explore influencing factors and demographic variations.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2022 in six primary healthcare centers in the Muscat Governorate. The study involved 290 randomly selected adults who completed a self-administered Arabic questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses, including unpaired t-tests, were used to identify associations.
Results: Out of 290 participants, 97% were aware of CT, and 60.6% had used it, primarily for back pain and to stimulate circulation. Most participants considered CT safe and effective and were influenced by religious endorsement. Higher knowledge was associated with higher education, while higher practice was linked to females and education. The main sources of information were family and friends.
Conclusion: Cupping therapy is prevalent in Oman, with generally positive perceptions, but gaps in understanding persist. The study suggests a need to promote evidence-based practices and the safe integration of CT with conventional medicine.
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