Beliefs and Determinants of Use of Traditional Complementary/Alternative Medicine in Pediatric Patients Who Undergo Treatment for Cancer in South America

Abstract

PurposeThe use of traditional complementary/alternative medicine (TCAM) among children with cancer has been well documented. South America has a rich history of traditional healers and medicinal resources; however, little is known about the use of TCAM among children with cancer. We sought to investigate patterns, beliefs, and determinants of TCAM use among South American children with cancer.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was administered to 199 children treated for cancer at institutions located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Montevideo, Uruguay. Participants were queried about the type of TCAM and strength of beliefs associated with its use. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratios with 95% CIs.ResultsWe found that the use of TCAM was common in both Argentina (47%) and Uruguay (76%). Variations in the forms of TCAM used were observed between the countries; however, both countries used TCAM primarily for supportive care. Mother’s education, wealth index, and TCAM belief system were significant predictors of TCAM.ConclusionTo our knowledge, this study is the first to report on the use of TCAM in pediatric oncology in South America. The study identifies several predictors of TCAM use, which may serve as target variables for educational and research initiatives. The finding that most families use TCAM for supportive care suggests that future efforts could evaluate the role of TCAM to enhance existing supportive care regimens, particularly in settings where access to conventional medications are limited.

Prevalence of the Use of Herbal Medicines among Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…In total, the crude prevalence estimates of herbal medicine use by children with cancer was reported by 23 studies [ 30 , 37 , 40 , 63 , 82 , 102 , 106 , 108 , 118 , 119 , 121 , 126 , 132 – 135 , 137 , 143 , 146 , 151 , 157 , 165 ]. The prevalence estimates ranged from 1% (95% CI: 0%–5%) to 71% (95% CI: 61%–79%).…”

Health‐care providers’ perspectives on traditional and complementary alternative medicine of childhood cancer in Kenya

“…Studies from high‐income countries report TCAM use by HCP ranging from 24% to 56% . This probably suggests that in Kenya, like other traditional cultures, TCAM is part of cultural heritage and perceived as standard care . It is therefore not limited to those less educated or unable to access “western” medicine but is rather an additional, alternative form of health care.…”

Integrative oncology: Addressing the global challenges of cancer prevention and treatment

“…TCIM is widely used by patients with cancer in Latin American countries 50‐54 . It is estimated that between 50% and 90% of adult or pediatric patients with cancer use TCIM 53,55‐62 .…”