The use of complementary and alternative medicines in breast cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of Complementary and Alternative medicines (CAM) by Breast Cancer Patients-bridging the gap in communication
IRAS ID
207870
Contact name
Kavi Sharma
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sussex, Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research aims to develop tools to facilitate communication between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and breast cancer patients, in regards to Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM). A pilot study, will explore the perceptions (Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices) of patients and HCPs (Oncologists and Nurses) in regards to CAM. The findings will be used to develop resources to facilitate communication between HCPs and patients about CAM.
The use of CAM is widespread in breast cancer. A study in Ontario Canada, reported it as high as 80 %. In a similar survey conducted in Germany; more than 90% of the breast cancer patients used some kind of CAM therapy. While the communication between HCPs and patients about CAM is dismal and research shows that up-to 77% of patients do not confide about their CAM use. Creating a communication gap in an arena where communication is an important tool. Such a deficit could prove a hindrance to providing high quality healthcare
To explore ways to bridge this gap in communication the present study has three phases
Phase I: This qualitative study will document the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP)of patients and HCPs towards CAM through loosely structured interviews. Additionally, it will explore the desire and requirements of HCPs towards supplementing their knowledge in regards to CAM. The information collected will be utilised to create CAM Documentation Tool (CDT).
Phase II: A survey to document the CAM preferences of breast cancer patients visiting the cancer centre, to identify the commonly used CAM modalities. The information collected in these two phases will be used to create appropriate CAM Resources Tool CRT (research packs, formal sessions, posters, booklets or Apps) to facilitate the knowledge of HCPs in regards to the most frequently used CAM modalities.
Phase III: To pilot the CRT created and to asses their impact on CAM communication
REC name
West of Scotland REC 1
REC reference
17/WS/0095
Date of REC Opinion
6 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion