The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in cancer patients participating in clinical trials. R. Epelbaum, B. Vizel; Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel Abstract: Background: The use of CAM has increased over the past decade. However, detailed research addressing the use of CAM in specific populations has yet to be undertaken. Patients giving informed consent in clinical trials might have a unique health-related behavior, characterized by more openness and a greater awareness of their ability to control the disease. In addition, they receive more conventional care. This study evaluates the extent and pattern of CAM use among patients participating in phase II and III trials. Methods: Forty patients with breast, colon and pancreatic cancer, participating in phase II and III trials, were included in the study. Interviews were conducted prior to the initiation of chemotherapy and before last cycle. Results: A total of 17 patients (42%) used CAM. Most of them started CAM before or during first cycle of chemotherapy. The most commonly used therapies were homeopathy (30%), food supplements (30%) and herbs (23%). Patients learned about CAM from a friend or family member (59%), self-reading (35%) and advertisement (18%). Lack of information about CAM (48% ), disbelief ( 43%) and the cost of therapy (35%) were the most commonly identified barriers to the use of CAM. Patients expected CAM to alleviate side effects of chemotherapy (64%), to improve physical and mental status (35%) and to better treat their tumors (18%). CAM users and nonusers did not differ with respect to age and gender. However, users tended to differ from nonusers with respect to education (more education, 88 vs 61%, respectively), place of birth ( native-born, 59 vs 30%), place of residence ( rural, 24 vs 5%) and relegious affiliation ( nonsecular, 30 vs 18%). All patients stated that they wanted information about CAM from their physicians, and most would prefer to receive CAM therapies within the hospital. Conclusions: CAM use is common among patients participating in clinical trials. Documentation of CAM use should become part of the assessment of these patients, as CAM therapies may be affecting evaluation of conventional therapies. Abstract No: 6096 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.