Published online 3 February 2005 | A. Molassiotis, P. Fernadez-Ortega, D. Pud, G. Ozden, J. A. Scott, V. Panteli, A. Margulies, M. Browall, M. Magri, S. Selvekerova, E. Madsen, L. Milovics, I. Bruyns, G. Gudmundsdottir, S. Hummerston, A. M.-A. Ahmad, N. Platin, N. Kearney, E. Patiraki
This study explores the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients across 14 European countries. A descriptive survey design was used, with data collected from 956 patients through a questionnaire. The results indicate that 35.9% of cancer patients used some form of CAM, with herbal medicines, homeopathy, vitamins/minerals, medicinal teas, spiritual therapies, and relaxation techniques being the most commonly used therapies. The use of CAM increased significantly after diagnosis, with herbal medicine use tripling. Multivariate analysis revealed that younger age, female gender, higher education level, and higher annual income were significant predictors of CAM use. Patients primarily used CAM to enhance their body's ability to fight cancer or improve physical and emotional well-being. While most patients reported satisfaction with CAM, 4.4% experienced side effects, mostly transient. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to explore and educate patients about CAM, integrate it into mainstream healthcare, and increase funding for CAM research.This study explores the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients across 14 European countries. A descriptive survey design was used, with data collected from 956 patients through a questionnaire. The results indicate that 35.9% of cancer patients used some form of CAM, with herbal medicines, homeopathy, vitamins/minerals, medicinal teas, spiritual therapies, and relaxation techniques being the most commonly used therapies. The use of CAM increased significantly after diagnosis, with herbal medicine use tripling. Multivariate analysis revealed that younger age, female gender, higher education level, and higher annual income were significant predictors of CAM use. Patients primarily used CAM to enhance their body's ability to fight cancer or improve physical and emotional well-being. While most patients reported satisfaction with CAM, 4.4% experienced side effects, mostly transient. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to explore and educate patients about CAM, integrate it into mainstream healthcare, and increase funding for CAM research.