Complementary therapies: overview and state of the art

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Integrative Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) use is prevalent among cancer patients globally, with reported usage rates varying significantly.
• Inconsistent study results stem from diverse definitions of unconventional cancer therapies.
• A clear distinction between alternative treatments (replacing mainstream care) and complementary therapies (adjuncts to mainstream care) is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the scope and prevalence of CAM use in oncology.
• To differentiate between alternative and complementary therapies for a more precise understanding of their roles.
• To enable selective evaluation of CAM's clinical effects and guide healthcare professionals, patients, and families.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on CAM prevalence in cancer patients.
• Analysis of differing definitions and classifications of unconventional cancer therapies.
• Categorization of therapies based on their application (alternative vs. complementary) and potential benefits.

Main Results:

• Reported CAM use ranges from 7% to 64% across various patient samples.
• Mind-body techniques and herbal remedies are examples of complementary therapies used for symptom control and quality of life enhancement.
• Some complementary therapies, like meditation and tai chi, are well-studied, while others, such as homeopathy, require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Differentiating alternative from complementary medicine provides a clearer understanding of CAM's role in cancer care.
• This distinction allows for a more nuanced evaluation of CAM's benefits and potential risks.
• Healthcare providers and patients need to be informed about evidence-based complementary therapies for symptom management and improved quality of life in cancer patients.