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Research: HOK and COLLEAGUES,
Listed in Issue 208
Abstract
HOK and COLLEAGUES, Institution Research group for Studies of Integrative Care, Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. johanna.hok@ki.se explored lay perspectives on use of biologically based therapies (BBTs) such as herbal medicines in cancer
Background
Biologically based therapies (BBTs) such as herbal medicines represent the most commonly used type of complementary and alternative medicine by cancer patients. There is a paucity of data regarding individuals' motives for starting and continuing use of BBTs in cancer. The authors’ objective is to explore lay perspectives on use of BBTs in cancer. Their hope is that the data generated will support pharmacists and other professionals in improving their communication about BBTs with patients.
Methodology
Interviews with 12 individuals with cancer who used BBTs were analyzed with interpretive description and framework analysis, to build on previous literature and gain new knowledge of clinical relevance.
Results
The findings suggest that users are motivated to continue to use BBTs when they experience these as both effective and harmless. Perceived effects of BBTs include a wide range of responses such as improved physical and psychological well-being, and cancer-related benefits. These experiences go beyond the legal health and medical claims for these products. The findings indicate that users' views of side-effects, ascribed to BBT use, are situation-dependent with the potential to either facilitate or hinder continued BBT
Conclusion
Our results indicate the importance of acknowledging users' own views of BBTs to improve patient-provider communication. This should aid the design of more effective BBT surveillance systems and hence increase patient safety and satisfaction.
References
Hok J, Falkenberg T and Tishelman C. Lay perspectives on the use of biologically based therapies in the context of cancer: a qualitative study from Sweden. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy & Therapeutics. 36(3):367-75. Jun 2011.
