Complementary therapies for cancer patients: assessing information use and needs

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Complementary Therapies
• Health Information Seeking Behavior

Background:

• Cancer patients frequently explore complementary therapies (CTs) alongside conventional treatment.
• Understanding patient information-seeking behaviors regarding CTs is crucial for supportive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate cancer patients' use of and preferences for complementary therapy information.
• To assess patients' understanding of scientific evidence in relation to CTs.
• To identify preferred sources for CT information.

Main Methods:

• Survey data collected from 404 patients at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC) and 303 callers to the Cancer Information Service (CIS) helpline.
• Assessed types and sources of CT information used, information preferences, and understanding of scientific evidence.

Main Results:

• Patients primarily sought information on CT safety, mechanisms of action, and side effects.
• Physicians and conventional cancer centers were preferred information sources, but infrequently used.
• Patients understood scientific evidence but often relied on testimonials and anecdotal information.

Conclusions:

• Conventional cancer centers should integrate CT information into supportive care to meet patient needs.
• Addressing patient concerns about CTs within established treatment settings can reduce stress.
• Bridging the gap between preferred and actual information sources for CTs is essential.