Investigation of traditional and complementary medicine use among oncology patients: a cross-sectional analysis

Authors : Salih Karatlı, Safiye Kübra Çetindağ Karatlı, Engin Eren Kavak
Pages : 424-429
Doi:10.32322/jhsm.1646342
View : 76 | Download : 69
Publication Date : 2025-05-30
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM), sociodemographic characteristics, methods used, attitudes towards this medicine and the main factors affecting its use in oncology patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between June 1 and July 31, 2024, involving patients receiving treatment at the Medical Oncology Service of Ankara Etlik City Hospital who agreed to participate in the study. Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire, and statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: While 40.8% of the 179 patients used T&CM before cancer diagnosis, this rate decreased to 28.4% afterwards. While there was a significant correlation between education level and T&CM use (p=0.03), no correlation was found between gender and age. Phytotherapy was the most frequently used method (66.7%). T&CM was mostly used for cure (66.7%), but only 3.9% of patients reported complete benefit. It was observed that 76.5% of the patients did not consult their physician or ask for information about T&CM. The most common reason for this is lack of patient knowledge. Only 11.7% of patients reported receiving adequate information about T&CM from their physicians. Conclusion: It was found that patients did not have enough information about T&CM and doctors did not provide enough information on the subject. Accurate information for patients can be provided by increasing the awareness of doctors about T&CM methods. In this way, patient-doctor communication can be strengthened, patients’ reservations can be reduced and a more open exchange of information can be provided.
Keywords : Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp, Fitoterapi, Onkoloji

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