ASMI Urges Complementary Medicine Study

The Australian Self Medication Industry says complementary medicine research is vital to build the evidence base about the safety, efficacy and public health benefits of the products.

A submission by ASMI to the government in relation to funding priorities for the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund has been made public, advocating funding for CM research to “facilitate informed policy decisions on the use of complementary medicines in preventive health, and in promoting general health and wellbeing”.

Brenda Davy, ASMI Strategy Manager for Complementary Medicines, said CMs were currently the largest and fastest growing segment in health care, with 70% of consumers taking vitamins, minerals and supplements.  “We know that consumers take complementary medicines to prevent some chronic conditions and contribute to their general health...we also know that if taken on a population-wide basis these medicines can have positive health outcomes and reduce the financial burden on government,” she said.

The ASMI document says more research would help consumers make informed decisions about their health, as well as increasing knowledge about how CMs are used in settings such as GPs, hospitals and allied health practices.

Source:pharamcydaily.com.au, Tuesday 7 June 2016