ABSTRACT
We introduce the current research on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the West, which we refer to as Evidence-based CAM (EBCAM), and discuss its characteristics, problems, and perspectives. Compared with the common attitude of CAM researchers in Japan, that of EBCAM researchers is more objective and often self-critical. EBCAM research is still developing because randomized controlled trials on CAM have many methodological flaws. Caution should be employed in interpreting provisional conclusions of relevant systematic reviews. CAM researchers in Japan should view the case report method from a perspective other than efficacy. Also, they will have to prepare evidence in response to demands from CAM consumers. Priority of research subjects from various kinds of CAM should be decided according to their popularity. Therefore, a large-scale survey on CAM use in Japan is essential.