Positive Health Online

Abstract

HANA and co-authors, Quality Improvement Unit, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel, have surveyed the use of complementary and alternative medicine for cancer in Northern Israel.

Background

The aim of the study was to survey the extent and characteristics of CAM use by cancer patients in northern Israel.

Methodology

Telephone interviews were conducted with 2,176 cancer patients or their family members.

Results

The rates of CAM use varied considerably from 3% in basically educated elderly people up to 69% in younger, more highly educated people, especially those receiving chemotherapy. Overall the rate of CAM use was 17%. All patients used CAM in addition to their conventional therapy, and less than half of them reported it to their physician. The therapies used were mostly chemical, herbal and homeopathic remedies. Patients reported using them to strengthen their immune system, and to alleviate side-effects of chemotherapy. 62% of users reported benefits in reduced pain, anxiety and stress, and improved quality of life.

Conclusion

Expanding physicians' knowledge on CAM methods will encourage them to provide additional advice, promote the use of beneficial therapies, and inform patients about potentially harmful methods.

References

Hana G, Bar-Sela G, Zhana D, Mashiach T, Robinson E. The use of complementary and alternative therapies by cancer patients in northern Israel. Israel Medical Association Journal: Imaj 7 (4): 243-247, Apr 2005.