Complementary and alternative medicine use before breast cancer treatment in a tertiary hospital.

Abstract

Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been in use among cancer patients for a long time. Its use, particularly among breast cancer patients, is increasing. We aimed to assess the prevalence, pattern of use, and reasons for using CAM therapy by patients after breast cancer diagnosis.
Methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out between July 2018 and December 2020. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to patients. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 23.0.
Results: A total of 106 patients with breast cancer were seen during the period with 44 (41.5%) having a history of CAM use. Forty-three (97.7%) were females with age range of 21-68 years (median 48.5 years). Early vs advanced breast cancer was 15 (34.1%) vs 29 (65.9%) at presentation and 2 (2.3%) vs 40 (97.7%) before treatment. Most frequently used CAMs were prayer healing (22.7%), anointing oil/handkerchief (20.5%), incantation/scarification (13.6%), dietary supplements (11.4%), massage (9.1%) and ritual sacrifice/herbs (6.8%). Seven (15.9%) patients used different CAM combinations. The expected benefits reported were cure (61.4%), prolonged survival (27.3%), relief of symptoms (9.1%) and boost immunity (2.3%). CAM providers were mostly pastors and herbalists (70.5%). Ten patients (22.7%) reported unwanted effects. Twenty-eight (63.6%) were dissatisfied with therapy, 7 (15.7%) were satisfied while 9 (20.5%) were indifferent. Most users (81.8%) will not use CAM again or recommend its use for breast cancer.
Conclusion: CAM therapy delays conventional breast cancer treatments in our setting. Adequate counselling of patients on integrative approach to make treatment more holistic and embracing might reduce unnecessary delays.