Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Cancer Patients at the End of Life: Korean National Study

作者：Choi Jin Young^*; Chang Yoon Jung; Hong Young Seon; Heo Dae Seog; Kim Samyong; Lee Jung Lim; Choi Jong Soo; Kang Ki Mun; Kim Si Young; Jeong Hyun Sik; Lee Chang Geol; Choi Youn Seon; Lim Ho Yeong; Yun Young Ho

来源：Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 2012, 13(4): 1419-1424.

DOI：10.7314/APJCP.2012.13.4.1419

• Complementary and alternative medicine
• end of life
• Korean cancer patients

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.

• 出版日期2012