Use of complementary and alternative medicine in Korean cancer patients: Results of a survey from the Korean Cancer Study Group (KCSG)

17061 Background: The aim of this study was to explore the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in cancer patients of Korea. This study was performed to identify the prevalence, types, subjective effects, and side effects of CAM use, reasons for CAM use, and patients' expectations of doctors regarding their CAM use among Korean cancer patients. Methods: From August to December, 2006, face to face structured interviews were conducted and the data were analyzed in the KCSG. Results: A total 251 patients were recruited. 84% of patients had used at least one type of CAM since the time of initial diagnosis. The most prevalent types of CAM used by these patients included special diet (60%), ginseong (54%), medicinal mushrooms (50%). Energy therapies, acupuncture and spiritual therapy were used uncommonly. The main reported reason for the use of CAM was to feel hopeful. Patients expected that CAM could cure cancer (64%) and improve immune system (52%). 62 % of patients did not inform their physicians about their CAM use. Patients attributed the reason of nondisclosure that physicians never asked about CAM (43%) and physicians would disapprove the CAM use (23%). 6% of CAM users experienced side effects. Demographic variables were not predictive for the use of CAM. 60% of patients wanted to get more information about CAM with their doctors. Conclusions: More than two-thirds of cancer patients used various kinds of CAM. Physicians treating cancer patients should aware of the frequency of CAM use and should share their opinion about CAM use with cancer patients. In order to help patients make informed decisions, physician should pay more attention to CAM for making appropriate utilization of CAM. No significant financial relationships to disclose.