Practices of Al-Hijama Practitioners at Cupping Community Centers in Qatar.

BACKGROUND: Cupping therapy (CT) is an alternative healing method widely practiced in Asian and Middle Eastern cultures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 Al-Hijama practitioners working at five cupping community centers in Qatar. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and safety practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, applying Chi-square, independent t-test, and ANOVA tests, with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Approximately half of the practitioners demonstrated nonadherence to established safety guidelines. Critical safety practices, including hand hygiene, equipment sterilization, use of disposable lancets, and documentation, were frequently neglected. No statistically significant associations were found between practitioners' demographic characteristics and adherence to safety practices. CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed significant gaps in cupping therapy safety practices among practitioners in Qatar. Although adherence was observed in certain areas, the findings emphasize the need for regular training programs and standardization of safety protocols to improve practice quality and patient safety.