Complementary and alternative modalities used by women with female-specific cancers

The purposes of this study were to describe the personal factors of women with female-specific cancers and the prevalence and types of complementary and alternative modalities (CAM) used by these women. The study also tested 2 hypotheses regarding personal factors and CAM use. Using a cross-sectional, retrospective, explanatory secondary analysis of the 2002 National Health Interview Survey data set, estimations were made with an initial sample of 725 women with female-specific cancers, using a framework on the basis of Pender's Health Promotion Model. Results of the study include that personal factors associated with those who used CAM include presence of pain and depression/anxiety. Those women having 2 or more types of female-specific cancers were associated with the use of alternative medical systems. The findings provide information for nurses about patients with female-specific cancers who use CAM for health promotion.