abstract: Use of complementary medications among older adults with cancer - ages 65-91 yrs

The use of herbal/complementary medications is observed in up to 17% of older adults with cancer who are receiving chemotherapy. The types of these agents used in this population may be distinct from those encountered among older adults in general.

CONCLUSIONS:

Complementary medication use was reported by 17% of older adults with cancer and was more common among those who had less advanced disease (i.e., those receiving adjuvant, potentially curative treatment) and higher functional status. Further studies are needed to determine the association between complementary medication use and cancer outcomes among older adults. Cancer 2012;. © 2012 American Cancer Society.