Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention (아시아태평양암예방학회)
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Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Cancer Patients at the End of Life: Korean National Study

  • Choi, Jin-Young (National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center) ;
  • Chang, Yoon-Jung (National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center) ;
  • Hong, Young-Seon (Department of Medicine, Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea) ;
  • Heo, Dae-Seog (Seoul National University hospital and College of Medicine) ;
  • Kim, Sam-Yong (Division of Hematooncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam University Hospital) ;
  • Lee, Jung-Lim (Department of Internal Medicine, Fatima Hospital) ;
  • Choi, Jong-Soo (Department of Hemato-oncology, Ulsan University College of Medicine) ;
  • Kang, Ki-Mun (Department of Radiation Oncology, Gyeong Sang National University Hospital) ;
  • Kim, Si-Young (Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology, Kyunghee University Hospital) ;
  • Jeong, Hyun-Sik (Department of Internal Medicine, Good Samaritan Hospital) ;
  • Lee, Chang-Geol (Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei University College of Medicine) ;
  • Choi, Youn-Seon (Department of Family Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine) ;
  • Lim, Ho-Yeong (Division of Hematology-oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Medical Center) ;
  • Yun, Young-Ho (Seoul National University hospital and College of Medicine)
  • Published : 2012.04.30
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Abstract

Objectives: To investigate in depth the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) by cancer patients at the end-of-life (EOL) and how they communicate with physicians about them. Design and location: In 17 hospitals in Korea between January and December 2004 we identified 4,042 families of cancer patients. Results: The prevalence of CAM use among cancer patients at the EOL was 37.0%, and 93.1% had used pharmacologic types of agents. The most frequent motive for CAM use was the recommendation of friends or a close relative (53.4%) or a physician (1.6%). Only 42.5% discussed CAM use with their physicians. Satisfaction with CAMS was recalled for 37.1%. The most common reason given for that satisfaction was improvement of emotional or physical well-being, while ineffectiveness was the most common reason given for dissatisfaction. The average cost of CAM during the last month of life was $US 900. CAM use was associated with longer disease periods, primary cancers other than liver, biliary, and pancreatic, and need of support from physicians or religion. Conclusions: CAM use among cancer patients at the EOL was common, not discussed with physicians, and associated with expectation of cure. Expectations were generally unmet while the treatments were a financial burden. Further studies evaluating the effects of CAM at the EOL and factors that enhance communication with the physician are needed.

Keywords

References

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