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Research: HYODO and co-workers,
Listed in Issue 116
Abstract
HYODO and co-workers, Medical Oncology Division, National Shikoku Cancer Center, Horinouchi 13, Matsuyama, 790-0007 Ehime, Japan, ihyodo@shikoku-cc.go.jp, have surveyed the use of complementary and alternative medicine for cancer in Japan.
Background
The aim of the study was to survey the use of CAM treatments by cancer patients in Japan, and to compare users and nonusers.
Methodology
A questionnaire on cancer CAM and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were given to 6,607 patients treated in 16 cancer centres and 40 palliative care units.
Results
3,461 questionnaires were returned, which corresponds to a response rate of 52.4%. The prevalence of CAM use was 44.6% among cancer patients and 25.5% among patients with benign tumours. Patients who used CAM were more likely to have a history of chemotherapy, higher education, an altered outlook on life following the cancer diagnosis, and a younger age. The vast majority of CAM users used naturopathic products such as mushrooms, herbs and shark cartilage. Positive effects were experienced by 24.3% of CAM users with cancer. 60.7% of users did not discuss the CAM therapy with a doctor.
Conclusion
This survey revealed a high prevalence of CAM use among cancer patients, without sufficient information or consultation with their physicians. Oncologists should not ignore the CAM products used by their patients because of a lack of proven efficacy and safety.
References
Hyodo I, Amano N, Eguchi K, Narabayashi M, Imanishi J, Hirai M, Nakano T, Takashima S. Nationwide survey on complementary and alternative medicine in cancer patients in Japan. Journal of Clinical Oncology 23 (12): 2645-2654, Apr 20, 2005.
