Influencing factors on tcm service demand for arthritis in athletes and fitness enthusiasts

Abstract

To investigate the factors influencing the demand for intelligent health services and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) medical services among fitness enthusiasts and athletes with undifferentiated arthritis, a study was conducted from January 2022 to June 2022. The study involved 100 local residents with undifferentiated arthritis and an equal number of fitness enthusiasts and athletes, forming the case group and a control group. Participants were further categorized based on their demand for TCM home medical services and intelligent health management systems into demand and no-demand subgroups. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the determinants of demand for both intelligent health management systems and TCM services. The findings revealed a 70% demand rate for both intelligent health management systems and TCM home medical services among the study population. Notably, individuals aged ≥40 years and those holding a college degree or higher were significantly more likely to express a need for these services (P<0.05), indicating age and education as key factors in the demand for intelligent health solutions. Conversely, demand for TCM services was significantly higher among participants with a technical secondary education or lower, those employed in agriculture, residing in rural areas, or experiencing blurred vision, anxiety, and depression (P<0.05). These factors suggest a diverse range of influences on the demand for TCM services, including educational level, place of residence, occupation, and specific health concerns such as vision issues and mental health. The study concludes that there is a clear demand for intelligent health management systems and TCM services among individuals with undifferentiated arthritis, particularly within the fitness and athlete community. This demand is influenced by various factors, including age, educational level, occupation, place of residence, and specific health issues. The results advocate for the active promotion of intelligent health management systems and the provision of TCM medical services to meet the diverse needs of this population, ensuring accessible and tailored healthcare solutions for those with undifferentiated arthritis.