Evaluation of Complementary Cupping Therapy in the Management of Hypertension and Triglyceride Levels in Coastal Fishermen Communities

Abstract

Background: Fishermen are community groups requiring special attention due to the nature of their work. The characteristics of a stressful job, unhealthy diet, and challenging environmental and weather conditions are risk factors for hypertension and elevated triglycerides. Wet cupping therapy is expected to help improve imbalances in triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and pulse rate among fishermen living in coastal areas. Methods: Sixty individuals from fishing communities participated in this study through random sampling by creating a serial number list. The hypertensive group (n=30) received cupping therapy combined with Al-Quran therapy, while the normotensive group (n=30) received only cupping therapy. Blood pressure, pulse rate, and triglyceride levels were measured in both groups before and one week after cupping therapy. Results: In the hypertensive group that received cupping therapy combined with Al-Quran therapy, there were significant changes in blood pressure, with the mean systolic blood pressure decreasing from 155.4 ± 21.8 to 141.3 ± 19.9, and diastolic blood pressure decreasing from 92.9 ± 10.6 to 85.3 ± 11.3. Triglyceride levels also showed a significant reduction from 259.4 ± 154.6 to 173 ± 74.5, with a statistically significant P value <0.05. In the normotensive group, there was a statistically significant change within normal limits in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as a decrease in triglyceride levels. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that wet cupping therapy combined with Al-Quran therapy is a promising complementary approach for controlling blood pressure and triglyceride levels in hypertensive patients. Therefore, it could serve as an alternative therapy for fishing communities in coastal areas.