An assessment of traditional and complementary medicine utilisation in cancer patients from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) use among cancer patients is increasing globally; however, it remains under-researched. Anticancer drugs have a narrow therapeutic window, and the use of complementary products may interact with chemotherapy.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of T&CM usage, reasons for use, perceived value of T&CM and patient disclosure of T&CM use to physicians among cancer patients in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Setting: Surveys were conducted at oncology centres in the private sector in KwaZulu-Natal.
Methods: Adult cancer patients were approached to complete a survey collecting demographic data and information related to the use of T&CM. An adapted version of the International Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire was used.
Results: Sixty-nine per cent of the 100 patients surveyed were T&CM users, of which, 57% used at least one form of T&CM to treat either a side effect of chemotherapy, cancer symptoms or cancer itself. Vitamins and/or minerals were used by 45% of participants, 27% used herbal products and 9% used homeopathic remedies. The most common self-help practice was prayer (77%). One-third of T&CM users disclosed their T&CM use to their physician.
Conclusion: Most cancer patients rely on mainstream conventional medicine to treat cancer itself. However, many still use T&CM, and it is an important consideration when patients are undergoing chemotherapy. A relatively low percentage of patients disclosed T&CM use.
Contribution: This study provides recent data on commonly used T&CM modalities, reasons for use and perceived benefits. These findings emphasise potential safety considerations and the need for more integrative T&CM discussions with patients.