The frequency of CAM use we found is in line with international data from CCCs in the USA. To our knowledge, this is the first study publishing data on the frequency of potential interactions. Thus, an initiative to protect women from the dangers of uncontrolled CAM use is urgently needed. In the discussion, we propose a concept of how to achieve this aim.
Also for patients in palliative care and their relatives, CAM is important. Reasons for using CAM are similar for patients with less advanced cancer. As most patients do not discuss using CAM with their physician, side effects and interactions of biologically based treatments may be dangerous. The desire of patients to act autonomously should be encouraged. Yet, physicians should ensure safe administration of complementary methods by including CAM in their communication with the patient and the family.
About 50% of cancer patients use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Women with breast cancer use CAM more frequently than others. We linked a questionnaire to the largest internet portal for cancer patients in Germany. The questionnaire addresses attitude towards CAM, disclosure to the oncologist, source of information, and objectives for use of CAM. 80 patients with breast cancer took part in our study, 61 currently using CAM. Most frequently used CAM methods were selenium, relaxation techniques, prayer, vitamin C, and meditation. Satisfaction was highest with relaxation techniques, vitamin C, homeopathy, yoga and Chinese herbs, lowest with mistletoe and acupuncture. 70% of participants did not think their oncologist took time to discuss CAM. Only 16% believed that their oncologist was well-informed about CAM. 46% relied on naturopaths and non-medical practitioners concerning CAM. Objectives for the use of CAM were to reduce side effects, boost the immune system, and become active.
StatementDie Behandlungsstrategien basieren auf der exakten Diagnose, den Vorbehandlungen und auf dem Erkrankungsstadium.Konsensus: 100 %
EmpfehlungenDie Therapie der MF soll entsprechend den in Tabelle 1 gelisteten Empfehlungen erfolgen. Konsensus: 100 % Die Therapie des Sézary-Syndroms soll entsprechend den in Tabelle 2 gelisteten Empfehlungen erfolgen. Konsensus: 86 % Die Therapie der CD30+ lymphoproliferativen Erkrankungen der Haut soll entsprechend den in Tabelle 3 gelisteten Empfehlungen erfolgen. Konsensus: 100 % Die Therapie der kutanen B Zell-Lymphome soll entsprechend den Tabellen 4a und 4b gelisteten Empfehlungen erfolgen. Konsensus: 100 %
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