Knowledge and use of "alternative" cancer therapies in children

Because of the increased interest in laetrile and other "alternative" cancer therapies among cancer patients and the lack of data concerning knowledge and use of such treatments in childhood cancer, parents of children diagnosed with cancer in 1977 and 1978 at a major pediatric oncology center were surveyed. Eight different "alternative" therapies or groups were known by 50% of parents. Seventeen of 106 children had received an "alternative" cancer treatment. News media were the most frequent initial information source. Accuracy of knowledge of toxic effects of laetrile was poor, with only 26.4% realizing poisoning was possible. Parents who felt desperation in their search for a cure and were looking for an easier treatment method, and those who were dissatisfied with their role in making treatment decisions, appeared at greatest risk of seeking "alternative" therapies. Over 56% of parents wanted more information about cancer and its treatment, with written information favored by almost 40%.