Background: The clustering of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors is a global concern due to its association with increased morbidity and greater demand for health services. In this context, traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) has emerged as a strategy increasingly adopted by individuals seeking broader approaches to health and well-being. This study aimed to investigate the association between lifestyle profiles and the adoption of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine. A secondary analysis was conducted using data from the 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey. Lifestyle behaviors (physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet) were grouped using two-step cluster analysis to identify distinct lifestyle profiles. Traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) adherence (e.g., acupuncture, homeopathy, medicinal plants and phytotherapy) was assessed through self-report. Logistic regression models were used to examine associations between outcomes. A total of 90,814 individuals aged >15 years were included in the analysis. Three lifestyle profiles were identified, all with a high prevalence of sedentary behavior (Z-score SD, 0,001 ±0,926; -0,415 ±0,845; 1,096 ±1,081). Individuals with healthier lifestyle patterns were significantly more likely to report TCIM adoption compared to those in the least healthy profile (adjusted OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.34–1.81). The lifestyle profiles are marked by a large prevalence of risk habits, such as high sedentary behaviour. Healthier lifestyle profiles were positively associated with TCIM use in a nationally representative Brazilian sample. These findings suggest that TCIM practices may reflect broader health-oriented behavioral patterns, supporting the integration of these approaches into public health planning. • Positive and negative behaviours coexist in Brazilian lifestyle profiles. • Three lifestyle clusters have been identified, and all profiles consistently showed high levels of sedentary behaviour. • The "At-risk" group, about 25% of the sample, has poor diet, low physical activity, and high screen time. • The present study found a positive association between healthier lifestyle profiles and the adoption of complementary and alternative medicine.
Almeida et al. (Sun,) studied this question.