Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use During Cancer Treatment at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. A121-A122
Author(s):  
Qianlai Luo ◽  
Gary Asher
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Treatment ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

scholarly journals Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Individuals Presenting for Care at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 96-103 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patricia L. Judson ◽  
Reem Abdallah ◽  
Yin Xiong ◽  
Judith Ebbert ◽  
Johnathan M. Lancaster
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Medicine Use ◽  
Medical Systems ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Energy Therapies ◽  
Very High ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Purpose: To define the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in individuals presenting for care at a comprehensive cancer center. Patients and Methods: A total of 17 639 individuals presenting to an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (and consortium sites) completed a questionnaire regarding CAM use. Data were analyzed using the univariate χ2 test to assess CAM use associated with a number of variables, including cancer status, age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, race, employment, and education level. Results: Eighty-seven percent of individuals who completed the CAM survey acknowledged CAM therapy use within the previous 12 months. Of the 5 broad categories of CAM, the most commonly used were biologically based approaches (14 759/17 639 [83.67%]), mind-body interventions (4624/17 485 [26.45%]), manipulative and body-based therapies (3957/17 537 [22.56%]), alternative medical systems (429/15 952 [2.69%]), and energy therapies (270/15 872 [1.7%]). CAM use was more prevalent among women, non-Hispanics, Caucasians, patients 60 to 69 years of age, and those who are married, have a higher level of education, and are employed ( P < .005). Conclusions: This is the largest report of CAM use in individuals presenting for care at a comprehensive cancer center. Our analysis revealed that a very high percentage of patients utilize CAM. Because many of these CAM interventions are not studied in oncology patients, additional research on safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action are essential. Furthermore, it is important that oncologists understand CAM modalities and counsel their patients about their use.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use by Patients Enrolled Onto Phase I Clinical Trials

2004 ◽  
Vol 22 (23) ◽  
pp. 4810-4815 ◽  
Author(s):  
Grace K. Dy ◽  
Lishan Bekele ◽  
Lorelei J. Hanson ◽  
Alfred Furth ◽  
Sumithra Mandrekar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Phase I ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Demographic Data ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Phase I Trials ◽  
Phase I Clinical Trials ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Purpose To describe the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and pattern of use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in patients enrolled onto phase I trials. Patients and Methods Questionnaires were administered to 108 patients with advanced malignancies enrolled onto phase I chemotherapy trials at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center (Rochester, MN). CAM was classified into two modalities, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic. Clinical and demographic data, including age, sex, and prior cancer treatment, were subsequently obtained from patient charts and examined for any correlation with CAM use, using χ2 analysis. Results One hundred two survey forms were returned. Among respondents, 88.2% (90 of 102) had used at least one CAM modality; 93.3% (84 of 90) and 53.3% (48 of 90) had used pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic CAM, respectively; and 46.7% (42 of 90) used both modalities. Vitamin and mineral preparations constituted 89.3% (75 of 84) of all pharmacologic CAM used. Intake was highest for vitamins E (48.8% [41 of 84]) and C (38.1% [32 of 84]), and 71.4% (60 of 84) of respondents took nonvitamin/mineral agents. Green tea (29.8% [25 of 84]), echinacea (13.1% [11 of 84]), and essiac (9.5% [8 of 84]) were the most popular. Prayer and spiritual practices were the most commonly used nonpharmacologic CAM, accounting for 52.1% (25 of 48). Chiropractors, the most frequently visited nontraditional medicine practitioners, were consulted by only 10% (9 of 90) of those who practiced CAM. Both CAM modalities were used more frequently by women (53.5% [23 of 43]) than men (40.4% [19 of 47]). Conclusion CAM use is common among patients in phase I trials and should be ascertained by investigators, because some of the agents used may interact with investigational agents and affect adverse effects and/or efficacy.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Women With Gynecologic Malignancy Presenting for Care at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

2015 ◽  
Vol 25 (9) ◽  
pp. 1724-1730 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reem Abdallah ◽  
Yin Xiong ◽  
Johnathan M. Lancaster ◽  
Patricia L. Judson
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Medicine Use ◽  
Gynecologic Malignancy ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

ObjectiveWe evaluated complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices among women presenting to a National Cancer Institute–designated Comprehensive Cancer Center with a gynecologic malignancy.MethodsWomen with a gynecologic malignancy who had consented to enrollment in our institutional prospective clinical registry between January 2003 and January 2014 and who had completed a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, medical histories, quality of life, and CAM use were considered for analysis.ResultsAmong the 2508 women identified, responses to questions on CAM use were provided by 534 (21.3%). The majority of CAM question respondents were white (93.5%) and older than 50 years (76%). Overall, 464 women (87% of CAM question respondents) used at least 1 CAM therapy during the previous 12 months. The most commonly used CAM categories were biologically based approaches (83.5%), mind and body interventions (30.6%), and manipulative and body-based therapies (18.8%). The most commonly used individual CAM therapies were vitamins and minerals (78%), herbal supplements (27.9%), spiritual healing and prayer (15.1%), and deep breathing relaxation exercises (13.1%). Complementary and alternative medicine use was greatest in age groups 20 to 30 years and older than 65 years and was more prevalent among those who were widowed (P< 0.005), retired (P= 0.02), and with a higher level of education (P< 0.01). There was no association with cancer type, race, or ethnicity.ConclusionsComplementary and alternative medicine use is common among women being treated for gynecologic malignancy. Given the potential interactions of some CAM modalities with conventional treatment and the possible benefits in controlling symptoms and improving quality of life, providers should discuss CAM with their patients.

scholarly journals Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Breast Cancer Patients at a Medical Center in Taiwan: A Cross-Sectional Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 19 ◽  
pp. 153473542098391
Author(s):  
Chieh-Ying Chin ◽  
Yung-Hsiang Chen ◽  
Shin-Chung Wu ◽  
Chien-Ting Liu ◽  
Yun-Fang Lee ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Patients ◽  
Medical Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Breast Cancer Patients ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Background Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is becoming more common in medical practice, but little is known about the concurrent use of CAM and conventional treatment. Therefore, the aim was to investigate the types of CAM used and their prevalence in a regional patient cohort with breast cancer (BC). Methods BC patients were interviewed with a structured questionnaire survey on the use of CAM in southern Taiwan at an Integrative Breast Cancer Center (IBCC). The National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) classification was used to group responses. Over a period of 8 months, all patients receiving treatment for cancer at the IBCC were approached. Results A total of 106 BC patients completed the survey (response rate: 79.7%). The prevalence of CAM use was 82.4%. Patients who were employed, were receiving radiotherapy and hormone therapy, and had cancer for a longer duration were more likely to use CAM ( P < .05). Multivariate analysis identified employment as an independent predictor of CAM use (OR = 6.92; 95% CI = 1.33-36.15). Dietary supplementation (n = 69, 82.1%) was the type of CAM most frequently used, followed by exercise (n = 48, 57.1%) and traditional Chinese medicine (n = 29, 34.5%). The main reason for using CAM was to ameliorate the side effects of conventional therapies. Almost half (46.4%) of these CAM users did not disclose that they were using it in medical consultations with their physicians. Most chose to use CAM due to recommendations from family and friends. Conclusion A large portion of BC patients at the IBCC undergoing anti-cancer treatment courses used CAM, but less than half discussed it with their physicians. Given the high prevalence of CAM, it would be justifiable to direct further resources toward this service so that cancer patients can benefit from a holistic approach to their treatment.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Turkish cutaneous melanoma patients: A prospective study from tertiary cancer center

2021 ◽  
pp. 107815522098763
Author(s):  
Faruk Tas ◽  
Ebru Cinar ◽  
Kayhan Erturk
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Primary Source ◽  
Treatment Modalities ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Melanoma Patients ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
A Prospective Study ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Background Only a few studies assessed the prevalence and the predictors of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use specifically in melanoma patients. The aim of this study was to assess the extent of CAM use in Turkish melanoma patients. Objective To assess the extent of CAM use and to compare sociodemographic and clinical characteristics between users and non-users in melanoma patients. Methods One hundred melanoma patients who were seen in outpatient clinics were included in a survey using questionnaire on CAM use. Results Twenty-seven patients used at least one type of CAM, the majority of which were herbs (73%). Turmeric (curcumin) was the most popular herb that was used alone or in conjunction with various other herbs (41%). Living in rural areas was significantly associated with CAM use (p = 0.02). The most common reason for CAM use was intent to cure of the disease (52%). The primary source of information about CAM was a close friend or a family contact (44%). CAMs were generally used together with conventional anticancer treatment modalities (64%) and they were ingested on a regular base (72%). CAMs could easily be acquired at regular herbal stores (88%). The patients experienced almost no adverse effects with CAM use; and most cases (71%) had confidence in CAM. About half of the patients consulted with their physicians about CAM use. Conclusion Minority, nearly one fourth of the melanoma cases used at least one type of CAM, the majority of which were herbs and turmeric (curcumin) was the most popular agent.

scholarly journals Addressing Unmet Information Needs: Results of a Clinician-Led Consultation Service About Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Cancer Patients and Their Relatives

2018 ◽  
Vol 17 (4) ◽  
pp. 1172-1182 ◽  
Author(s):  
Markus Horneber ◽  
Gerd van Ackeren ◽  
Felix Fischer ◽  
Herbert Kappauf ◽  
Josef Birkmann
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Patients ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Consultation Service ◽  
Telephone Consultation ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Purpose. To report on a telephone consultation service with cancer patients and their relatives about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) between 1999 and 2011. Methods. We offered a Germany-wide, free-of-charge telephone consultation service about CAM led by oncology clinicians from a comprehensive cancer center. The consultations followed a patient-centered approach with the aim to provide guidance and evidence-based information. Sociodemographic, disease-related data as well as information about the consultations’ content were collected in a standardized manner, and feedback questionnaires were sent out immediately after the consultations. Results. Overall, 5269 callers from all over Germany used the service (57% patients, 43% relatives). The “big 4” cancer types (breast, gastrointestinal, prostate, and lung) accounted for 55% of all calls. In 67% of calls, patients had just received the diagnosis or commenced anticancer therapy; 69% of patients had advanced or metastatic diseases. More than half of the callers (55%) had vague concerns like “what else can I do?” rather than specific questions related to CAM. The consultations covered a broad spectrum of issues from CAM therapies to cancer treatment and measures supportive of health, nutrition, and psychosocial support. Callers highly valued the service. Conclusions. Consulting about CAM addresses important unmet needs from cancer patients and their relatives. It provides clinicians with the opportunity to engage in open and supportive dialogues about evidence-based CAM to help with symptom management, psychological support, and individual self-care. Consulting about CAM cannot be separated from consulting about conventional care and should be provided from the beginning of the cancer journey.

scholarly journals Prevalence and Correlates of Postdiagnosis Initiation of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Patients at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

2013 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-41 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adam Perlman ◽  
Oliver Lontok ◽  
Maureen Huhmann ◽  
J. Scott Parrott ◽  
Leigh Ann Simmons ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Diagnosis ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Cancer Center ◽  
Patients With Cancer ◽  
After Cancer ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

Patients with cancer increasingly use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in conjunction with conventional oncology treatments. This study looks at the prevalence and correlates of individual CAM modalities initiated after cancer diagnosis.

Complementary and alternative medicine: What do oncology healthcare providers think?

2009 ◽  
Vol 27 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. e20614-e20614
Author(s):  
C. S. Tung ◽  
C. C. Sun ◽  
L. Cohen ◽  
M. Frenkel ◽  
L. M. Ramondetta ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Comfort Level ◽  
Comprehensive Cancer Center ◽  
Relaxation Techniques ◽  
Number Of Patients ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

e20614 Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is growing as the oncology patient (pt) population increases. The purpose of this study was to assess current CAM practice patterns of oncology healthcare providers. Methods: We distributed a 20-page anonymous survey to all physicians (), mid-level practitioners, clinical pharmacists, and dietitians at a comprehensive cancer center. The survey examined factors influencing a provider's inquiry towards pt CAM use, as well as current perception and use of 15 different CAM modalities, such as meditation, acupuncture, chiropractic, and herbal therapy. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Student's t-test were used for analysis. Results: 671/1,601 (42%) surveys were returned with s comprising 50% of the responses. 83% of respondents believed CAM has a role in cancer care. Over 70% indicated that massage, meditation/prayer, relaxation techniques, and acupuncture have potential uses, primarily to relieve symptoms not controlled by conventional therapy (tx) (47%) and as psycho-social-spiritual support (47%). Respondents estimated 28% of pts utilize CAM; 25% of respondents and 19% of pts initiated CAM discussions during pt visits. Those in medicine-based fields were more likely to discuss pt CAM use compared to surgical specialities (30% vs. 19%, p<0.01), but there was no significant difference in comfort level to discuss CAM modalities. s were less likely to discuss CAM use compared to all other providers (21% vs. 31%, p<0.01). s were also less comfortable discussing herbs (37% vs. 51%, p<0.01), massage (73% vs. 82%, p<0.05), meditation/prayer (71% vs. 82%, p<0.05), and relaxation tx (67% vs. 77%, p<0.01) compared to all other providers but more comfortable discussing acupuncture (63% vs. 55%, p<0.05). Respondents cited lack of knowledge in CAM as the primary reason for not discussing CAM with pts. Conclusions: Past studies estimate that >50% of patients use at least one form of CAM. Our study suggests that oncology providers critically underestimate the number of patients incorporating CAM into their treatment. Improving provider education on CAM therapies is essential to improve patient-physician communication regarding potential risks and benefits of CAM with traditional cancer therapies. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients at two cancer centers in Brazil.

2021 ◽  
Vol 39 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. 12060-12060
Author(s):  
Eliza Dalsasso Ricardo ◽  
Denise Oishi ◽  
Angel Ayumi Tome Uchiyama ◽  
Catarina Marchon da Silva ◽  
Josué Bravo Espinoza ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Treatment ◽  
Complementary And Alternative Medicine ◽  
Cancer Patients ◽  
Cancer Type ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cancer Centers ◽  
Cam Use ◽  
Complementary And Alternative

12060 Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is relatively common among cancer patients. Data regarding CAM use in Brazil is scarce. We sought to define CAM use among cancer patients and investigate factors that might influence it. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults diagnosed with any cancer type who came to appointments at two cancer centers in Brazil from January 2020 to January 2021. Unadjusted and adjusted analyses were conducted by using Logistic Regression models to determine the association of covariates with binary outcome. Statistical analyses were performed with SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc, Cary, NC). All tests were 2-sided, and P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: In total, 319 patients who consented to the face-to-face interview were included and all of them completed the questionnaires. Most patients (52.4%) were between 51 and 70 years-old, 59,6% were female, 85,2% were from the private service and 67% had college graduate/baccalaureate. Most cancer types were from gastrointestinal tract (31,4%), breast (20.4%), lung (12.3%) and genitourinary type. More than 85% of the participants were on any active cancer treatment. The prevalence of current CAM use was 34.2% and 50.2% of the patients did not believe CAM has anti-cancer properties. Two-thirds of the participants have never discussed about CAM with their oncologists. Only 4.1% of the respondents would abandon conventional cancer treatment in order to use just CAM. Among CAM users, 55% referred multiple therapies use. Of those therapies, spiritual surgery was the most prevalent one. There was a significant higher proportion of females reporting CAM use (p = 0,008) as well as a higher proportion of CAM use among private patients (p = 0,008). Conclusions: CAM use was common among our study population, especially spiritual surgery. Women and private patients were more prone to use CAM. Although most patients would not abandon conventional treatment, many of them have never discussed about CAM with their oncologists.

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