Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in advanced cancer: a systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes knowledge about the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among advanced cancer patients. EBSCO and Ovid databases were searched using core concepts, including advanced cancer, CAM, integrative medicine, and decision-making. Articles included in the final review were analyzed using narrative synthesis methods, including thematic analysis, concept mapping, and critical reflection on the synthesis process. Results demonstrate that advanced cancer patients who are younger, female, more educated, have longer duration of disease, and have previously used CAM are more likely to use CAM during this stage of illness. Key themes identified include patterns of and reasons for use; and barriers and facilitators to informed CAM decision-making. Knowledge regarding the use of CAM in advanced cancer remains in its nascent stages. Findings suggest a need for more research on understanding the dynamic process of CAM decision-making in the advanced cancer population from the patients' perspective.

From the conventional to the alternative: exploring patients’ pathways of cancer treatment and care

“…When the threat is minimal, it appears that individuals believe there is time and room for some error. Similar findings were also identified in a systematic review by Truant et al [31] who synthesized knowledge about CAM use and advanced cancer patients. Findings demonstrate that advanced cancer patients who are younger, female, have higher education, had a longer duration of the disease and previous experience with CAM are more likely to use CAM during this stage of illness.…”

Perception of Patients with Cancer towards Support Management Services and Use of Complementary Alternative Medicine - a Single Institution Hospital-Based Study in Saudi Arabia

“…Meanwhile old age, female and higher education patients were more likely to use CAM than those level, that may be the small number of patients used CAM in this study. Previous studied reported that CAM use for cancer treatment is more prevalent among women than men and is associated with younger age, higher education, higher socioeconomic status, advanced disease, active coping behaviour, and a change in life outlook and beliefs since the diagnosis of cancer (Edgar et al, 2000;Paltiel et al, 2001;Alferi et al, 2001;Wolsko et al, 2004;AARP, NCCAM, 2007;Gansler et al, 2008;Truant et al, 2013 ;Saghatchian et al, 2014 ). Some potential explanations why female used CAM than male are that women tend to pay more attention to their health (Berrigan et al, 2003); more frequent physician visits (Bertakis et al, 2000).…”

Surveys of Cancer Patients and Cancer Health Care Providers Regarding Complementary Therapy Use, Communication, and Information Needs

“…This finding suggests that CT use changes over the cancer trajectory, which supports previous findings that identify the influence of disease status as well as psychological social, cultural, and other factors, such as patient-provider communication on CT use. 10,24,25 At the time of diagnosis, many patients are interested in taking stock of the full range of conventional and CT treatment options, requiring open, unbiased, and purposeful communication about CTs and CT decision support by HCPs. Complementary therapy decisions and use has been shown to shift over the cancer trajectory, particularly at times of transition, such as at the end of primary treatment, or when disease, social, or other contextual factors shift.…”