2University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye International Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul-Türkiye
3Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences for the Disabled, Rumeli University Faculty of Sports Sciences, İstanbul-Türkiye DOI : 10.5505/tjo.2023.4110 OBJECTIVE
This study investigates the increasing use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among oncology patients, surpassing conventional medical treatments. Factors driving this trend go beyond medical intervention. The study aims to shed light on patients" awareness and knowledge of CAM practices during and after treatment.
METHODS
161 cancer patients voluntarily participated, providing demographic information, gender, age, marital
status, and cancer type. Data on CAM use and knowledge were collected and analyzed using the Statistical
Package for the Social Sciences 22.0 program. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant, with
approval from the ethics committee.
RESULTS
53.4% were over 60 years old, and 57.8% were women. 86.3% were familiar with at least one CAM
method, and 29.2% actively used CAM. Women used CAM significantly more than men. Usage was
higher in individuals under 60 years and single patient. CAM was more popular among breast cancer
patients. Black cumin and turmeric were the most frequently used herbal methods. Patients mainly
acquired CAM knowledge from friends and online sources.
CONCLUSION
The study revealed a lower CAM usage rate compared to similar international studies in different settings,
likely due to the focus on patients seeking treatment at the radiation oncology department. As
physicians, it is crucial to expand our knowledge and educate oncology patients about CAM applications.
Bridging the information gap will cater to the growing interest in CAM among patients and ensure
informed decisions regarding treatment options.