Potentially Dangerous Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use by Ovarian Cancer Patients | Abstract

Potentially Dangerous Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use by Ovarian Cancer Patients

Abstract

Objective: 

The use of complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) has increased greatly over the last decade. Although many CAM activities are unlikely to increase a patient's risk for adverse events with conventional treatment for cancer, this is not necessarily true of ingestible CAM treatments such as herbal remedies, teas, and other supplements. This study surveyed women with ovarian cancer in order to evaluate the use of herbs and supplements that might place them at increased risk at the time of their surgery for ovarian cancer.  

Methods: 

A total of 219 women with ovarian cancer, who had received care from one of two participating oncology practices, were surveyed. 

Results: 

Of the women who reported having had surgery to treat their ovarian cancer (n=209), 65 (31%) reporting using one or more herbs or supplements that have been hypothesized to increase their risk for adverse outcomes. In almost all cases the risks associated with these substances were elevated risks for excessive bleeding.  

Conclusions: 

The use of herbs and supplements that might increase risks associated with excessive bleeding during gynecologic cancer surgery is common. Further research is needed to better understand the risks associated with use of herbs and supplements among women approaching surgery

. (J GYNECOL SURG 28:1)