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)
