THE USE OF UNPROVED METHODS OF TREATMENT BY CANCER-PATIENTS - FREQUENCY, EXPECTATIONS AND COST

The use of unproven therapies is of concern for a number of reasons, i ncluding the lack of scientific evidence to support them, their potent ial financial costs and the possibility of interference with conventio nal treatment. This study explored the prevalence, predictors and expe riences of unproven therapy use by cancer patients attending an oncolo gy clinic at an Australian teaching hospital. A questionnaire was admi nistered to patients whilst they were waiting for a consultation with their oncologist. A total of 173 patients were invited to participate, and 156 consented to complete the survey (90%). Over half the patient s (81, 52%) had used at least one unproven therapy since their diagnos is, and 28% had used three or more. Patients most commonly practised m editation/relaxation, changed their diet and used multivitamins. Most expected that the therapies would aid their conventional treatments an d make them feel more in control of their situation, Benefits reported were largely psychological, such as an increased sense of control or a reduction in anxiety. Younger patients, those with early stage or ad vanced metastatic disease and those who had used unproven therapies pr ior to developing cancer were more likely to use unproven therapies. H ealth professionals involved in the care of cancer patients should be prepared to discuss the use of unproven therapies and try to identify and deal with unmet needs to help patients to cope with their illness.