Use of complementary/alternative therapies by women with advanced-stage breast cancer

• Main Authors: Glaspy John (Author), Wenger Neil (Author), Albert Paul S (Author), Andersen Ronald (Author), Shen Joannie (Author), Cole Melissa (Author), Shekelle Paul (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2002-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>This study sought to describe the pattern of complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) use among a group of patients with advanced breast cancer, to examine the main reasons for their CAM use, to identify patient's information sources and their communication pattern with their physicians.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Face-to-face structured interviews of patients with advanced-stage breast cancer at a comprehensive oncology center.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Seventy three percent of patients used CAM; relaxation/meditative techniques and herbal medicine were the most common. The most commonly cited primary reason for CAM use was to boost the immune system, the second, to treat cancer; however these reasons varied depending on specific CAM therapy. Friends or family members and mass media were common primary information source's about CAM.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>A high proportion of advanced-stage breast cancer patients used CAM. Discussion with doctors was high for ingested products. Mass media was a prominent source of patient information. Credible sources of CAM information for patients and physicians are needed.</p>

Item Description

10.1186/1472-6882-2-8
1472-6882