Exploring the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cancer Patients. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Ellen; Nissen, Lisa; McCarthy, Alexandra; Steadman, Kathryn; Windsor, Carol
• Is Part Of: Integrative cancer therapies. Volume 18(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: complementary and alternative medicine -- cancer -- contributing factors -- gender differences -- disease-related factors -- socioeconomic factors -- cultural-related factors; Cancer -- Alternative treatment -- Periodicals; 616.99406
• DOI: 10.1177/1534735419846986
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1534-7354

Abstract

In Australia, it is estimated that around 17% to 87% of cancer patients have used one form of complementary therapy during their cancer treatment. There are numerous reasons and contributing factors for cancer patients to consider using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM information and products are readily available. However, the level of evidence to support the benefits of use in the cancer setting is limited, and the associated adverse effects and interactions with conventional medicine may not be fully studied. Besides, not all health professionals favor the concept of integrative health approaches, or have the confidence in dealing with CAM due to a lack of knowledge and standardization of practices. A thematic review of the literature was performed on the main contributing factors to cancer patients' use of CAM, as well as the current issues that may be encountered by the patients and health professionals.