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Nafeh G, Abi Akl M, Samarani J, Bahous R, Al Kari G, Younes M, Sarkis R, Rizk S. Urtica dioica Leaf Infusion Enhances the Sensitivity of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells to Cisplatin Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:780. [PMID: 37375728 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Urtica dioica (UD) has been widely used in traditional medicine due to its therapeutic benefits, including its anticancer effects. Natural compounds have a promising potential when used in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs. The present study explores the anticancer and anti-proliferative properties of UD tea in combination with cisplatin on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in vitro. To elucidate the effect of this combination, a cell viability assay, Annexin V/PI dual staining, cell death ELISA, and Western blots were performed. The results showed that the combination of UD and cisplatin significantly decreased the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner compared to each treatment alone. This was accompanied by an increase in two major hallmarks of apoptosis, the flipping of phosphatidylserine to the outer membrane leaflet and DNA fragmentation, as revealed by Annexin V/PI staining and cell death ELISA, respectively. DNA damage was also validated by the upregulation of the cleaved PARP protein as revealed by Western blot analysis. Finally, the increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio further supported the apoptotic mechanism of death induced by this combination. Thus, a leaf infusion of Urtica dioica enhanced the sensitivity of an aggressive breast cancer cell line to cisplatin via the activation of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Nafeh
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Maria Abi Akl
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Jad Samarani
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Rawane Bahous
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Georges Al Kari
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Maria Younes
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
| | - Rita Sarkis
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
- Laboratory of Regenerative Hematopoiesis, Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC) & Institute of Bioengineering (IBI), School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Rizk
- Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos P.O. Box 36, Lebanon
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Mwaka AD, Achan J, Adoch W, Wabinga H. From their own perspectives: a qualitative study exploring the perceptions of traditional health practitioners in northern Uganda regarding cancers, their causes and treatments. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:155. [PMID: 34275446 PMCID: PMC8287672 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01505-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Many cancer patients in the low- and middle-income countries seek care with traditional health practitioners (THPs) and use traditional and complementary medicines (T&CMs) for treatment of cancers. Little is known about the perceptions and influence of THPs on cancer patients’ help-seeking and treatment decisions. We aimed to explore perceptions of THPs regarding cancers, cancer causes, and preferred treatments for cancers, in order to identify aspects that can inform interventions to improve cancer outcomes in Uganda. Methods We conducted this ethnographic study in northern Uganda. In-depth interviews were conducted at the respondents’ homes in quiet, open places, and in the absence of none- respondents. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim within a week of the interviews. Thematic qualitative analysis approaches were used to identify themes and subthemes. Results We included 21 respondents in the study; most were male (16/21), married, with median age of 59 years (range 39 – 80). Most respondents perceived cancer as a new and challenging disease, while one respondent thought of cancer as a result of an imbalance within the body. Most confessed unawareness of the causes of cancers, but believed that cancer could result from the interplay of a number of factors including poor diets, ingestions of chemical agents, and assaults by the spirits of the dead. Some reported that cancers (especially of women’s genital tracts) were sexually transmitted, or caused by accumulation of dirt. Only few healers treated cancers. Most respondents reported that they referred cancer patients to biomedical facilities, sometimes after they have first used their medicines. Most respondents hoped that collaborative research with scientists could help them identify potent T&CMs that cure cancers. Conclusion Traditional health practitioners require training on cancer causes, symptoms and signs, and the necessity for prompt initiation of effective treatments in order to improve cancer outcomes. The predisposition of the majority of respondents to refer cancer patients to biomedical services sets a fertile ground for meaningful cooperation between biomedical and traditional health practices. The national health system in the low- and middle-income countries could formally recognize traditional health practices as a component of the national healthcare system, and encourage the two to practice side by side. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01505-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Deogratius Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Jennifer Achan
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Adoch
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henry Wabinga
- Kampala Cancer Registry, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Akin-Odanye EO, Ogo CN, Sulaiman FA, Suleiman L, Ogunsanya ME, Odedina FT. Examining the influence of illness perception and financial toxicity on the quality of life of prostate cancer patients. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF UROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s12301-021-00173-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Cancer of the prostate (CaP) is a public health problem that affects the male genitourinary system causing a significant threat to men’s quality of life (QoL). Experiencing financial constraints and poor illness perception may further compromise the QoL of men with CaP.
Methods
Aim: To examine the relationship between financial toxicity and illness perception with quality of life in men with CaP. The descriptive cross-sectional study used simple random sampling technique to recruit 173 men with CaP from four tertiary health facilities in Nigeria. Data were collected with the comprehensive score for financial toxicity (COST-FACIT), the brief illness perception questionnaire (Brief IPQ) and the functional assessment of cancer therapy-prostate (FACT-P). Analysis of data was carried out using analysis of variance, correlation and hierarchical regression analyses.
Results
The 173 participants had an average age of 71.57 ± 11.18, and 53.18% had one comorbid disease. Significant difference was found in overall QoL based on treatment site and number of comorbid diseases (P < 0.01). QoL had a significant inverse relationship with all the illness perception variables and a significant linear relationship with lower financial toxicity (P < 0.01). Furthermore, financial toxicity (P < 0.05) and four illness perception variables: consequences, identity, concern and illness understanding (P < 0.01), had significant individual influences on QoL of men with CaP.
Conclusions
Quality of life in men with CaP may be improved through mitigating the financial toxicity associated with accessing care and providing appropriate counseling about the illness and what to expect following prostate cancer diagnosis and during treatment.
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Prevalence of the Use of Herbal Medicines among Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:9963038. [PMID: 34055029 PMCID: PMC8149249 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9963038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Although herbal medicines are used by patients with cancer in multiple oncology care settings, the magnitude of herbal medicine use in this context remains unclear. The purpose of this review was to establish the prevalence of herbal medicine use among patients with cancer, across various geographical settings and patient characteristics (age and gender categories). Methods Electronic databases that were searched for data published, from January 2000 to January 2020, were Medline (PubMed), Google Scholar, Embase, and African Index Medicus. Eligible studies reporting prevalence estimates of herbal medicine use amongst cancer patients were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses. Studies were grouped by World Bank region and income groups. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed to explore source of heterogeneity. Results In total, 155 studies with data for 809,065 participants (53.95% female) met the inclusion criteria. Overall, the pooled prevalence of the use of herbal medicine among patients with cancer was 22% (95% confidence interval (CI): 18%–25%), with the highest prevalence estimates for Africa (40%, 95% CI: 23%–58%) and Asia (28%, 95% CI: 21%–35%). The pooled prevalence estimate was higher across low- and middle-income countries (32%, 95% CI: 23%–42%) and lower across high-income countries (17%, 95% CI: 14%–21%). Higher pooled prevalence estimates were found for adult patients with cancer (22%, 95% CI: 19%–26%) compared with children with cancer (18%, 95% CI: 11%–27%) and for female patients (27%, 95% CI: 19%–35%) compared with males (17%, 95% CI: 1%–47%). Conclusion Herbal medicine is used by a large percentage of patients with cancer use. The findings of this review highlight the need for herbal medicine to be integrated in cancer care.
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Desai K, Bao T, Li QS, Raghunathan NJ, Trevino K, Green A, Xiao H, Mao JJ. Understanding interest, barriers, and preferences related to yoga practice among cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5313-5321. [PMID: 33660077 PMCID: PMC9364436 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite growing evidence supporting the benefits of yoga for cancer-related symptom management, yoga usage among cancer survivors is low. To translate the evidence of yoga benefits into community practice, it is critical to understand interest in yoga as well as barriers and preferences that influence yoga usage among cancer survivors. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional survey study among cancer survivors, 18 years or older, with a primary diagnosis of cancer, and receiving treatment or follow-up care at outpatient clinics at five regional academic cancer center sites. We collected data and performed bivariate and multivariable analyses on self-reported yoga usage and interest in and barriers to practicing yoga, as well as preferred location and time for yoga practice. RESULTS Of 857 participants, 70.0% had never practiced yoga and 52.3% were interested in practicing yoga. Among those interested, 52.5% had never practiced yoga. Lower interest was independently associated with being male (odds ratio [OR] = 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.20-0.44, p < 0.001), unemployed (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.39-0.91, p = 0.016), and white (OR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.23-0.78, p = 0.005). Commonly cited barriers among those who were interested but had never practiced were not aware of yoga benefits (36.3%), difficulty motivating (28.7%), experiencing symptoms (22.9%), and not enough time (22.0%). Participants indicated "on-site and at a studio near home" (41.5%) as preferred location and evenings (3-8 pm, 34.0%) as preferred time for yoga practice. CONCLUSION Although more than 50% of patients indicated interest in practicing yoga, use of yoga is low among cancer survivors. Barriers and patient preferences for yoga practice need to be addressed to design effective yoga programs for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krupali Desai
- Integrative Medicine Services, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - Ting Bao
- Integrative Medicine Services, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Qing S Li
- Integrative Medicine Services, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Nirupa J Raghunathan
- Integrative Medicine Services, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Kelly Trevino
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY, 10022, USA
| | - Angela Green
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 485 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY, 10017, USA
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Regional Network Site, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
| | - Jun J Mao
- Integrative Medicine Services, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10021, USA
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Heydarirad G, Cramer H, Choopani R, Gharehgozlou R, Mosavat SH, Ameri A, Pasalar M. Topical Costus sp. Preparation as Palliative Care for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy of Patients: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial. J Altern Complement Med 2021; 26:807-812. [PMID: 32924550 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2020.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse effect of various anticancer regimens with different sensory-motor abnormalities in patients. The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of using Costus sp. oil as a palliative treatment in such patients. Design: This was a pilot randomized placebo-controlled double-blind clinical study. Settings/Location: Imam Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Subjects: Patients 18-80 years of age undergoing chemotherapy treatment recently or during the last 6 months were enrolled after meeting the inclusion criteria. Interventions: The intervention group used Costus sp. as a topical ointment and the placebo group used topical paraffin for 4 weeks. Outcome measures: Feasibility of recruitment, including treatment acceptability (evaluated as number of patients leaving the study early), and compliance (defined as consumption of a minimum 80% of the ointment) with the intervention were assessed. Neuropathic pain change was defined as the secondary outcome, too. Results: Totally, 50 out of 73 participants were identified eligible and were randomly divided into intervention or placebo groups. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of sociodemographic data. At the end of the study, 24% (confidence interval [95% CI]: 9-45) (intervention group) and 12% (95% CI: 2-31) (placebo group) of patients revealed treatment unacceptability. Meanwhile, 12% (95% CI: 2-31) in the intervention group and 28% (95% CI: 12-49) in the placebo group did not show the compliance. Moreover, according to patients' records, pain reduction was higher in the intervention group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.001). Conclusions: This preliminary study showed that topical use of Costus sp. was feasible and acceptable in patients suffering from CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Heydarirad
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Holger Cramer
- Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Rasoul Choopani
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Gharehgozlou
- Cancer Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Department of Radiation Oncology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hamdollah Mosavat
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Research Center for Psychiatry and Behavior Science, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Ameri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Pasalar
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Toukabri I, Said AB, Hamdi A, Mokrani A, Gabsi A, Ayed WB, Tounsi K, Limayem I. Patterns of complementary and alternative medicine use among Tunisian cancer patients. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2020; 27:1948-1957. [PMID: 33323022 DOI: 10.1177/1078155220980131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients is prevalent worldwide as cancer patient are perpetually seeking for a way to improve their quality of life and to cure their disease. Unfortunately, the majority ignore the danger that can resort when they use CAM currently with conventional therapies. The purpose of this study is to assess prevalence and predictors of CAM use in cancer patients. METHODS Cross-sectional study using a questionnaire administered to cancer patients, who were attending Salah Azaiz institute, Tunis, Tunisia. The study took place from September to December 2018. RESULTS In 222 cancer patients, the overall prevalence of CAM use was 40.54%. On univariate analysis, patients who had university education level were less likely to use CAM (p = 0.05). Based on multivariate analysis, CAM users had more likely metastatic tumor (p = 0.047; OR = 1.913).It is reported that the majority of the population used herbal medicine. The most common herbal products consuming by patients, included Ephedra foeminea (51.8%), Annona muricata (12%) and Curcuma longa L. (10.84%).The main source of information was entourage (family, friends, hospital entourage) (74.44%).The majority of CAM users (61.11%) reported to consume CAM currently with conventional therapies. CONCLUSION This survey revealed a high prevalence of CAM use. The most common type of CAM use is herbal products. Some of the used herbal products are known to interact with conventional anticancer medication. This emphasizes the importance of patients disclosure of CAM use to health professionals in order to avoid herb-medications interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imen Toukabri
- Department of Pharmacy, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Azza Ben Said
- Department of Pharmacy, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Adel Hamdi
- Department of Pharmacy, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Amina Mokrani
- Department of Oncology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Azza Gabsi
- Department of Oncology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Wiem Ben Ayed
- Department of Pharmacy, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Imen Limayem
- Department of Pharmacy, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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TUZCU A, İPEK M. Meme kanseri hastalarının tamamlayıcı tedavilerin kullanımına ilişkin inanç ve deneyimleri: Kalitatif bir çalışma. CUKUROVA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.17826/cumj.699833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Mwaka AD, Mangi SP, Okuku FM. Use of traditional and complementary medicines by cancer patients at a national cancer referral facility in a low-income country. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13158. [PMID: 31441575 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe use of traditional and complementary medicines (T&CM) and associated factors among patients with cancer. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) involving patients with selected solid tumours. Independent variables included age, sex, marital status, cancer site and stage. Main outcome variables were use and disclosure of use of T&CM. RESULTS The majority of participants were women (n = 352; 81.9%). Breast cancer (n = 312; 71.9%) was the predominant cancer type. 55.4% of participants (n = 240) self-reported use of T&CM. Among them, 68.3% (140/205) reported using them to treat/cure cancer, 35.6% (72/202) for strengthening the immune system and 31.2% (63/202) for management of pain. Patients with advanced stage cancers were more likely to be users compared with those in stage one. The majority (81.9%, 195/238) of T&CM users did not disclose use to their healthcare professionals. The main reasons for nondisclosure included lack of inquiry by clinicians (79.6%, 117/147) and fear of disapproval and/or rebuke (11.6%, 17/147). CONCLUSION Use of T&CM by patients with cancer under biomedical care is common but often undisclosed to the healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Deogratius Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Cancer Awareness and Early Detection Coalition (CAEDCO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sabina Patrick Mangi
- Department of Medicine, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, Kampala, Uganda.,Tosamaganga Council Designated Hospital, Iringa, Tanzania
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Raghunathan NJ, Korenstein D, Li QS, Mao JJ. Awareness of Yoga for Supportive Care in Cancer: Implications for Dissemination. J Altern Complement Med 2019; 25:809-813. [PMID: 31274335 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Evidence indicates there are beneficial physical and psychosocial effects from practicing yoga in cancer patients and survivors. Despite yoga having been incorporated into National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for symptoms ranging from fatigue to pain, patients' use of yoga for supportive care is low, ranging from 6% to 12%. This study aims to evaluate the awareness of yoga as therapy in an academic cancer center and the preferences for information delivery in this population. Design: We conducted a cross-sectional survey study at an urban academic cancer center. Responses regarding awareness and use of yoga were evaluated; those responding "not aware" were analyzed for preferences in information delivery. Univariate analysis was used to further characterize awareness of yoga for supportive care. Results: Of 303 respondents, 68% were female, 77% were white, and 75% were college educated. Despite access to yoga at the cancer center, 171 (56%) patients expressed they were not aware of the availability of yoga. Male patients were more likely to be unaware of yoga (72.4% vs. 48.8%, p = 0.045). Awareness did not vary by age, race, educational attainment, marital status, cancer type, or cancer stage. Of the 171 "not aware" patients, 87.6% expressed desire for information in the form of printed material, followed by 80.4% for e-mail, 37.6% for smartphone application, and 27.6% for social media. Non-white respondents were more likely to express interest in receiving information by smartphone. Conclusions: More than half of cancer patients were unaware of the yoga program despite advertising across the institution. Patients prefer varying methods for information receipt, with preferences differing by sociodemographic factors. Targeted education and outreach using appropriate engagement is needed to improve the awareness of yoga for symptom control in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deborah Korenstein
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Qing S Li
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jun J Mao
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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Arıkan F, Uçar MA, Kondak Y, Tekeli A, Kartöz F, Özcan K, Göksu SS, Coşkun HŞ. Reasons for complementary therapy use by cancer patients, information sources and communication with health professionals. Complement Ther Med 2019; 44:157-161. [PMID: 31126549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer patients are known to commonly use complementary therapies (CT). However, it is emphasized that patients do not share sufficient information with health professionals about this subject and that the subject is ignored in oncology practice. The aim of the study is to assess cancer patients' reasons for using complementary therapy, information resources and communication with health professionals. METHODS The study is a descriptive, cross-sectional study. In this study, a questionnaire was used by the researchers. A questionnaire form consisting of 3 parts was used. In the first part of this form, there were questions about the gender, age and educational status of the patients (8 questions). In the second part, there were questions about disease and treatment information (3 questions), and the third part had questions about the use of complementary therapies (9 questions). To determine the use of complementary therapy, patients were asked 'Do you currently use complementary treatment?' (Yes or No). 183 patients included in the study completed the questionnaire about complementary therapies. RESULTS In this study, it was determined that 37.7% of the patients were using complementary therapies. The most commonly used complementary therapy was natural products (46.4%). The most common reason for using complementary therapy was to provide support for treatment. Almost half of the cancer patients (48.5%) did not talk about this issue with their physicians, and 41.1% of them did not talk about CT with their nurses. The study found that the most important reason why the patients did not talk about CT was that they were not asked about it by health professionals. CONCLUSION This study determined that almost half of patients could not receive information about CT from health professionals. Patients expect physicians and nurses to initiate communication on this subject. Providing healthcare professionals with evidence-based counseling about CT is essential for improving patient safety and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Arıkan
- Akdeniz University, Faculty of Nursing, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Mürvet Artuk Uçar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz Universty Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Kondak
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz Universty Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Aysel Tekeli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz Universty Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Funda Kartöz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz Universty Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Keziban Özcan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz Universty Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Sema Sezgin Göksu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Hasan Şenol Coşkun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
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Pehlivan S, Süner A, Yıldırım Y, Fadıloğlu Ç. Investigation into Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches for Turkish Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2018; 57:1497-1508. [PMID: 29299785 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0546-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The study was conducted to determine the levels of usage of complementary and integrative health (CIH) approaches and the symptoms experienced by Turkish patients with gastrointestinal cancer. A descriptive study was conducted on 81 patients with gastrointestinal cancer attending the medical oncology department of an oncology hospital. In the data collection stage, the patient description form that prepared by the researchers and the "Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale" were used. Data were evaluated via Chi-square and student t test. It was determined that 55.6% of the patients with gastrointestinal cancer applied at least one CIH approaches, and these CIH approaches were praying (80.0%), herbal medicine (57.7%), a special diet (40.0%), therapeutic touch (15.6%), exercise (13.3%) and psychotherapy (4.4%). 68.8% of patients who used the CIH approach stated that they applied the CIH approaches in order to supplement the medical treatment, and 91.1% stated that they did not inform health employees about that they using the CIH approach. It was also found that the use of CIH approaches was not related to socio-demographic characteristics, disease characteristics and experienced symptoms. It is very important that patients with gastrointestinal cancer be questioned in terms of CIH approaches used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Pehlivan
- Department of Nursing, Health Science Faculty, Uludag University, 16059, Bursa, Turkey.
| | - Ali Süner
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Başkent University, 42080, Konya, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Yıldırım
- Nursing of Internal Medicine, Nursing Faculty, Ege University, 35100, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Çiçek Fadıloğlu
- Nursing of Internal Medicine, Nursing Faculty, Ege University, 35100, İzmir, Turkey
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Abu-Darwish MS, Efferth T. Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:56. [PMID: 29445343 PMCID: PMC5797783 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer is one of the major problems affecting public health worldwide. As other cultures, the populations of the Near East rely on medicinal herbs and their preparations to fight cancer. Methods: We compiled data derived from historical ethnopharmacological information as well as in vitro and in vivo results and clinical findings extracted from different literature databases including (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) during the past two decades. Results: In this survey, we analyzed the huge amount of data available on anticancer ethnopharmacological sources used in the Near East. Medicinal herbs are the most dominant ethnopharmacological formula used among cancer's patients in the Near East. The data obtained highlight for the first time the most commonly used medicinal plants in the Near East area for cancer treatment illustrating their importance as natural anticancer agents. The literature survey reveals that various Arum species, various Artemisia species, Calotropis procera, Citrullus colocynthis, Nigella sativa, Pulicaria crispa, various Urtica species, Withania somnifera, and others belong to the most frequently used plants among cancer patients in the Near East countries. Molecular modes of action that have been investigated for plant extracts and isolated compounds from Near East include cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction with participation of major player in these processes such as p53 and p21, Bcl-2, Bax, cytochrome c release, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, activation of caspases, etc. Conclusion: The ethnopharmacology of the Near East was influenced by Arabic and Islamic medicine and might be promising for developing new natural and safe anticancer agents. Further research is required to elucidate their cellular and molecular mechanisms and to estimate their clinical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S. Abu-Darwish
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences, Shoubak University College, Al-Balqa’ Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
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Albabtain H, Alwhaibi M, Alburaikan K, Asiri Y. Quality of life and complementary and alternative medicine use among women with breast cancer. Saudi Pharm J 2018; 26:416-421. [PMID: 29556133 PMCID: PMC5856939 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2017.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complementary and Alternative Medication (CAM) is commonly used among women with breast cancer to improve their quality of life (QoL). However, few studies examine the prevalence of CAM and its’ relation to the patients’ QoL among women with breast cancer. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 95 women with breast cancer at a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. The outcome measure of interest was the QoL. The correlation was used to assess the association between CAM use and QoL. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine the factors that affect the use of CAM. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Results CAM use was reported by 81.1% of the study participants. The most commonly used CAM therapy was spiritual therapy 70.5%, followed by honey 36.8%, olive oil 24.2% and 23.2% herbal therapy. We found that those who were undergoing cancer treatment had a significantly higher percentage of CAM usage as compared to those not undergoing cancer therapy (72.6% vs. 8.4%, P=0.008). With regards to QoL, there was a statistically significant difference between CAM users and non-CAM users in global health status (73.2% vs. 64.8%, P = 0.049). Conclusions CAM therapy was commonly used among women in our study sample which was correlated with higher overall global QoL. As CAM is widely used, health care providers may need to discuss the use of CAM with breast cancer women and be up to date on the benefits and risk of CAM use through well-equipped training programs and workshops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeel Albabtain
- Clinical Pharmacy Master Candidate, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 55069, Riyadh 11534, Saudi Arabia
| | - Monira Alwhaibi
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Yousif Asiri
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Ali-Shtayeh MS, Jamous RM, Salameh NMY, Jamous RM, Hamadeh AMA. Complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients in Palestine with special reference to safety-related concerns. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 187:104-122. [PMID: 27125594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The use of CAM including herbal medicine as the most preferred CAM modality, among cancer patients who are taking prescription medications has shown to be highly prevalent worldwide as well as in several Middle Eastern countries, with a high percentage of the patients do not disclose their CAM use to treating physician. AIM OF THE STUDY The current study aimed to evaluate the patterns of CAM use among two cohorts of cancer patients in Palestine over a three-year period, and to identify socio-demographic factors that are associated with CAM use. MATERIALS AND METHODS Across-sectional survey of patients attending outpatient cancer clinics. The method was based on a semi-structured questionnaire. In order to identify safety-related concerns associated with the products listed, a literature search was conducted using different databases (PubMed, Micromedex, AltMedDex, and the Natural Medicine Comprehensive Database). RESULTS In 472 cancer patients including 372 of the 2011 cohort; and 100 of the 2014 cohort, the overall prevalence of CAM use was 69.5%. CAM users were more likely to be ≤65 years old, village resident, being in the midst of chemotherapy, to have high interest spiritual quest, and to have no other chronic diseases. A significant number of CAM users reported using herbal preparations (98.3%, and 89.6% in the two study cohorts, respectively). In the current study, a total of 40 plant taxa belonging to 23 botanical families were reported by ≥3 cancer patients in the two cohort groups. The top most commonly used plant in the 2011 cohort group was Arum palaestinum (43.5%), while Ephedra foeminea emerged as the top most commonly utilized plant (from 0.0% in 2011 to 55.2% in the 2014 cohort), mainly due to a recent publicizing and portraying of the plant in the local media as an effective cancer herbal remedy. Safety-related concerns were associated with 33 (82.5%) herbs, including herb-drug interactions with altered pharmacokinetics (8, 20% herbs), direct toxic effects (16, 40% herbs), and increased in vitro response of cancer cells to chemotherapy (30, 75% herbs). CONCLUSIONS CAM use, especially herbal medicine in cancer is highly prevalent in Palestine. This study has demonstrated the role of the media on the emergence of new CAM herbal therapies among cancer patients in Palestine, and discussed its potential implications on patients and for oncologists who are treating them. Some of the most widely used herbal medicines by cancer patients in the present work are known to interact with conventional anticancer drugs. Hence, the disclosure of the use of herbal remedies by patients to health professionals with sufficient training in CAM use is important for the later in order to assess whether there are any possible herbal drug interactions and/or harmful drug reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rana M Jamous
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center-BERC, Til-Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nihaya M Y Salameh
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center-BERC, Til-Nablus, Palestine; Palestinian Military Services, Ramallah, Palestine
| | - Rania M Jamous
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center-BERC, Til-Nablus, Palestine; Palestinian Military Services, Ramallah, Palestine
| | - Amneh M A Hamadeh
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center-BERC, Til-Nablus, Palestine
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Communication and integration: a qualitative analysis of perspectives among Middle Eastern oncology healthcare professionals on the integration of complementary medicine in supportive cancer care. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2016; 142:1117-26. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-016-2120-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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17
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Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Cancer Patients and Determination of Affecting Factors. Holist Nurs Pract 2015; 29:357-69. [DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Mwaka AD, Okello ES, Orach CG. Barriers to biomedical care and use of traditional medicines for treatment of cervical cancer: an exploratory qualitative study in northern Uganda. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2015; 24:503-13. [PMID: 24923866 PMCID: PMC4930140 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Use of traditional medicines for treatment of cancers has increased worldwide. We used a qualitative approach to explore barriers to biomedical care and reasons for use of traditional medicines for the treatment of cervical cancer in Gulu, northern Uganda. We carried out 24 focus group discussions involving men and women aged 18-59 years. We employed content analyses technique in data analysis. Traditional medicines were used mainly due to barriers to biomedical care for cervical cancer. The barriers included health system factors, for example long distances to health facilities and unavailability of medicines; health workers' factors, for example negative attitudes towards patients and demands for bribes; individual patient's factors, for example inability to pay for medical care; and socio-cultural beliefs about superiority of traditional medicines and perceived greater privacy in accessing traditional healers. Barriers to biomedical care and community beliefs in the effectiveness of traditional medicines encourage use of traditional medicines for treatment of cervical cancer but might hinder help-seeking at biomedical facilities. There is need for targeted culturally sensitive awareness campaign to promote effectiveness of modern medicine and to encourage cautious use of traditional medicines in the treatment of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Mwaka
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala
| | - E S Okello
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala
| | - C G Orach
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Ben-Arye E, Hamadeh AMA, Schiff E, Jamous RM, Dagash J, Jamous RM, Agbarya A, Bar-Sela G, Massalha E, Silbermann M, Ali-Shtayeh MS. Compared perspectives of Arab patients in Palestine and Israel on the role of complementary medicine in cancer care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2015; 49:878-84. [PMID: 25499828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2014.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Revised: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Complementary medicine (CM) is extensively used by patients with cancer across the Middle East. OBJECTIVES We aimed to compare the perspectives of two Arab populations residing in diverse socioeconomic-cultural settings in Palestine and Israel regarding the role of CM in supportive cancer care. METHODS A 27-item questionnaire was constructed and administered to a convenience sample of Arab patients receiving cancer care in four oncology centers in northern Israel and Palestine. RESULTS Each of the two groups had 324 respondents and was equally distributed by age and marital status. Compared with the Israeli-Arab group, Palestinian participants reported significantly higher CM use for cancer-related outcomes (63.5% vs. 39.6%, P < 0.001), which included more herbal use (97.6% vs. 87.9%, P = 0.001) and significantly lower use of dietary supplements, acupuncture, mind-body and manual therapies, and homeopathy. Most respondents in both groups stated that they would consult CM providers if CM was integrated in oncology departments. Related to this theoretical integrative scenario, Palestinian respondents expressed fewer expectations from their oncologists to actively participate in building their CM treatment plan. Treatment expectations in both groups focused on improving quality of life (QOL), whereas Palestinian respondents had fewer expectations for CM to improve fatigue, emotional concerns, sleep, and daily functioning. CONCLUSION Arab patients with cancer from Palestine and Israel highly support CM integration within their oncology institutions aiming to improve QOL. Nevertheless, respondents differed in their perceived model of CM integration, its treatment objectives, and their oncologists' role in CM integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Israel; Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Amneh M A Hamadeh
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Centre, Til, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Elad Schiff
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bnai-Zion Hospital, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rana M Jamous
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Centre, Til, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jamal Dagash
- Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Israel
| | - Rania M Jamous
- Biodiversity and Environmental Research Centre, Til, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Abed Agbarya
- Department of Oncology and Radiation Therapy, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Community Oncology Unit, Nazareth, Clalit Health Services, Northern District, Israel
| | - Gil Bar-Sela
- Department of Oncology and Radiation Therapy, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eyas Massalha
- Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Israel
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Ben-Arye E, Schiff E, Mutafoglu K, Omran S, Hajjar R, Charalambous H, Dweikat T, Ghrayeb I, Sela GB, Turker I, Hassan A, Hassan E, Popper-Giveon A, Saad B, Nimri O, Kebudi R, Dagash J, Silbermann M. Integration of complementary medicine in supportive cancer care: survey of health-care providers' perspectives from 16 countries in the Middle East. Support Care Cancer 2015; 23:2605-12. [PMID: 25617072 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-2619-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this multinational Middle-Eastern study, we assessed health-care providers' (HCPs) perspectives on their patients' use of complementary and traditional medicine (CTM) and identified the leading barriers to CTM integration in supportive cancer care. METHODS A 17-item questionnaire was developed and administered to HCPs attending palliative medicine workshops conducted across the Middle East by the Middle East Cancer Consortium. RESULTS 339 HCPs from 16 countries across the Middle East completed the questionnaire (80.3 % response rate). Respondents perceived their patients' reasons for CTM use primarily in the context of cancer cure (63 %) and quality of life (QOL) improvement (57 %). Expectation regarding CTM's role in cancer cure/survival was more pronounced in Turkey, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority, and the Persian Gulf area. In contrast, the expectation that CTM would improve QOL was more emphasized in Israel. A mid-position between the cure/survival and QOL poles was observed in Cyprus, Lebanon, and the North African countries. Leading barriers to CTM integration in supportive cancer care included oncologists' skepticism and a gap between patients' expectations and HCP's objectives. Respondents' leading recommendation to HCPs was to communicate integrative care emphasizing well-being and improved functioning in accordance with their patients' health beliefs. CONCLUSION CTM integration in supportive cancer care can be facilitated by implementing a platform for Middle Eastern clinical collaborations. HCPs' expectations and experiences with CTM have been positive in the oncology setting. These data need to be corroborated with information of patients' expectations on the provision of CTM over all phases of the oncology treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Integrative Oncology Program, The Oncology Service and Lin Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, 35 Rothschild St., Haifa, Western Galilee District, Israel,
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Üstündağ S, Zencirci AD. Factors affecting the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A questionnaire study. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2015; 2:17-25. [PMID: 27981088 PMCID: PMC5123460 DOI: 10.4103/2347-5625.152402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine the factors affecting cancer patients’ quality of life. Methods: We collected data from 352 chemotherapy patients of an Outpatient Chemotherapy Unit in a state hospital. We included volunteered chemotherapy patients with a signed informed consent and at least 50 Karnofsky Performance Scale points. We gathered data by Personal Information Form and Nightingale Symptom Assessment Scale (N-SAS) and analyzed via basic descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis. Results: Patients were women (54.8%), married (83.5%), elementary school graduates (57.1%), housewives (44.6%) and undergoing fluorouracil-based therapy (47.2%), and almost all patients had religious and cultural rituals for the disease. Women experienced worse physical and social well-being than men (P = 0.001, P = 0.0001). Singles had worse psychological and general well-being (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001). Housewives had the worst physical and social well-being (P < 0.05). No relationship existed between education level and life quality (P > 0.05). Breast cancer and sarcoma patients had the worst social well-being than other cancer patients. The N-SAS points of patients were not affected by blessings/prays, vow/sacrifice, consulting local herbalists and visiting “ocaks (folk physicians)” (P > 0.05). Patients with bad quality of life practiced lead pouring and amulets (P < 0.05). Gender was the first factor affecting the quality of life. Conclusion: Advanced studies on individual quality of life factors affecting cancer would empower nurses for better personal care techniques and patients for easily overcoming the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema Üstündağ
- Department of Nursing, Dumlupınar University Kütahya School of Health, Kütahya, Turkey
| | - Ayten Demir Zencirci
- Department of Nursing, Ankara University Health Sciences Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
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Dhanoa A, Yong TL, Yeap SJL, Lee ISZ, Singh VA. Complementary and alternative medicine use amongst Malaysian orthopaedic oncology patients. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 14:404. [PMID: 25324121 PMCID: PMC4209028 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although studies have shown that a large proportion of cancer patients use CAM, no study on CAM use amongst orthopaedic oncology patients has been published. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence, characteristics and factors associated with CAM use amongst orthopaedic oncology patients. METHODS All consecutive consenting patients/parents who presented at the Orthopaedic Oncology Clinic, University Malaya Medical Centre (1st January to 31st December 2013) were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, one hundred sixty-eight of the 274 patients recruited (61.3%) had used CAM at some time during their current illness. The prevalence of CAM used was 68% (123/181) for patients with malignant tumours and 48.4% (45/93) for patients with benign tumours. The most popular CAMs were biological-based therapies (90.5%), followed by mind-body techniques (40.5%). The most frequently used biological therapies were mega/multivitamins (31%), snakehead (Chana striatus) (28%) and sea cucumber (Stichopus horrens) (18%); whereas prayers (31%) and holy water (13%) dominated the mind-body category. Common reasons for CAM use were to improve physical well-being (60.1%), try out everything that would help (59.5%) and to enhance wound-healing (39.3%). Independent predictors for CAM use in multivariate analysis were paediatric patients [OR 2.46; 95% CI 0.99-6.06; p = 0.05], malignant tumours [OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.12-3.25; p = 0.018] and patients who underwent surgery [OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.15-3.69; p = 0.015]. Majority patients started taking CAMs following suggestions from family members (53%) and friends (49%). Sixty-six percent of patients felt they actually benefitted from CAM and 83.3% were satisfied/very satisfied. Only 5 patients reported side-effects. Majority of CAM users planned to continue CAM use or recommend it to others. However, only 31.5% of patients disclosed their CAM usage to their doctors. CONCLUSIONS This survey revealed a high prevalence of CAM usage amongst orthopaedic oncology patients, with majority patients expressing satisfaction towards CAM. Oncologists should proactively ask patients about CAM to prevent potential adverse effects, as most patients do not share this information with them.
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Arslan D, Tural D, Akar E. Herbal Administration and Interaction of Cancer Treatment. J Palliat Med 2013; 16:1466-76. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2013.0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Arslan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Deniz Tural
- Department of Medical Oncology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emre Akar
- Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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