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Abstract

Most of the studies related to the use of unconventional methods of therapy by cancer patients have been carried out in the developed countries. This study was conducted to ascertain the frequency, type, and duration of use of unconventional methods of therapy by cancer patients in Pakistan. We also wanted to identify individuals who are most likely to use these methods and to compare the findings with those reported from the developed countries. Between 1 April and 30 May 1994, all patients with histologically proven cancer who visited the oncology unit were interviewed. A printed questionnaire with questions and options was used as an interview guide. Informed consent was obtained. One hundred and ninety-one patients were interviewed, on average, for 25 minutes each. Use of unconventional methods of therapy by cancer patients was widespread (54.5% of all patients). The majority (83.7%) were influenced by family members to use these methods. Traditional herbal medicines (70.2%) and homeopathy (64.4%) were the most commonly employed methods. Thirty-six percent of the users employed these methods before receiving any conventional therapy. Only 15% used these methods after conventional therapeutic options had been exhausted. Patients generally perceived these methods as useful, non-toxic and inexpensive. Age, marital status, socio-economic background, education level and status of underlying neoplasm did not influence the frequency of use of unconventional methods. The use, however, was influenced by gender, family size, and type of underlying malignancy. Patients aware of their diagnosis were less likely to use these methods. This study suggests that use of unconventional methods by cancer patients in Pakistan is widespread. Unlike western countries, these methods are often employed before receiving any conventional therapy. This probably results in a significant delay which can be expected to adversely influence the subsequent disease management and survival. Public education, reduction of cost and easy availability of conventional therapy may be helpful in reducing the use of methods which otherwise may have no proven value.

Why Breast Cancer Patients Seek Traditional Healers

“…In the case of cancer survivors who seek both Western and traditional treatment, the traditional healing can be seen as complementary to Western medicine, a stance supported by numerous studies including Moodley et al [22], Malik et al [24], Tovey et al [29], Lerner and Kennedy [31], Freeman and Motsei [32], Moodley and Sutherland [33], and Kamil and Khoo, 2006 [45]. From this perspective, the use of traditional healing as complimentary treatment has its potential.…”

“…This spiritual healing role is supported by studies in countries such as Norway, where faith healing is the commonest method practiced by users of unconventional therapy [30]. Similarly in Pakistan, spiritual therapy was commonly practiced [24]. …”

“…Traditional healing practices are not limited to traditional communities. According to Malik et al [24] even in Western countries, 6 to 45% of cancer patients used unconventional therapies. The practice is also influenced by cultural values, religious beliefs, language of clients, and social trends [24].…”

“…As reported above, what is known about motives for seeking traditional healers comes from studies on patients with various diseases in various places such as Canada [22, 33], Indonesia [25], India [18], Norway [30], Pakistan [19, 24, 29] and USA [7, 9, 23, 28, 31, 34, 35]. These inquiries give us a glimpse into what might be going on, but to date there are no studies specifically with breast cancer patients in Malaysia who seek traditional healers.…”

Patient Delay in Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Two Hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan: Preventive and Life-Saving Measures Needed

“…10 Previous studies have also shown high rates of delay in breast cancer diagnosis, with 39% reporting late in northern Pakistan and going for their first visit regarding the breast lump after a delay of 6 months after noting any symptoms. 11 - 13 The delay in presentation and detection of patients with breast cancer is a major contributor to the advanced stage at presentation and to the increased mortality rates in Pakistan. 12 Development of specific strategies by policymakers to reduce delays requires an understanding of the factors that influence this delay.…”