Abstract
BACKGROUND: The International Questionnaire to Measure the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (I-CAM-Q) is a standardized tool for assessing CAM use. While it has been adapted into several languages, this study presents the first Hungarian translation and cultural adaptation. Given the growing interest in CAM in Hungary, a validated Hungarian version is essential for accurate data collection and informed healthcare policy. METHODS: The I-CAM-Q was translated into Hungarian using a rigorous forward–backward translation protocol involving expert translators, proofreaders, and a reconciliation panel. The final version was pilot-tested among healthy volunteer healthcare workers from ophthalmology departments. The questionnaires were used to assess clarity, cultural relevance, and reliability in this cross-sectional study. Individuals with diagnosed eye diseases were excluded. RESULTS: Among ophthalmologically healthy volunteers, 77.8% consulted physicians in the past 12 months, while 8.9% visited chiropractors and spiritual healers, and 2.2% consulted acupuncturists. In the past 3 months, physicians remained the most consulted (73.7%), followed by chiropractors (53.3%). CAM therapies were mainly used for general well-being and acute conditions, with high satisfaction 75–100% of users rated chiropractic, acupuncture, and spiritual healing as “very useful.” Phytomedicines were used primarily for acute illness (41.7%) and general well-being (27.1%), with 68.1% of users rating them as very useful. Dietary supplements were widely consumed, especially Vitamin D (62.9%) and Vitamin C (57.1%), mainly for prevention (46.2%) and general health (38.5%). Meditation and relaxation techniques were also commonly practiced, with 92.3% and 69.2% of users, respectively, rating them as very useful. CONCLUSIONS: The Hungarian version of the I-CAM-Q was successfully translated, culturally adapted, and validated. It provides a reliable tool for assessing CAM use in Hungary and supports further research into CAM practices and their integration into healthcare. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-025-05220-2.