Cancer Patients and Their Use of Alternative Treatments

In Indonesia, many people with breast cancer and colorectal cancer turn to complementary medicine. This is a big deal because it can mess with their regular treatment. It might cause unwanted side effects, interfere with their medication, or even delay their cancer care. The focus here is on understanding why and how these patients use complementary medicine. It's important to note that complementary medicine is not the same as alternative medicine. Complementary medicine is used alongside conventional treatment. Alternative medicine is used instead of conventional treatment. The study looked at patients in a big hospital in Yogyakarta. It found that many patients with breast cancer and colorectal cancer use complementary medicine. This is a pattern that needs to be understood better. The study also looked at what factors predict the use of complementary medicine. It found that certain factors make it more likely that a patient will use complementary medicine. One of the key findings is the impact on the time it takes for a patient to be diagnosed. This is a crucial factor in cancer care. The sooner a patient is diagnosed, the better their chances of recovery. The study found that the use of complementary medicine can delay this process. This is a significant concern because it can affect the patient's outcome. The study also looked at the types of complementary medicine used. It found that there is a wide range of treatments used. This is important because it shows that patients are looking for different ways to manage their condition. It also shows that there is a need for more information about the safety and effectiveness of these treatments. The use of complementary medicine is a complex issue. It's not just about the treatments themselves. It's also about the beliefs and attitudes of the patients. It's about their cultural background and their personal experiences. It's about their relationship with their doctors and their access to healthcare. All of these factors play a role in the use of complementary medicine. The study highlights the need for more research in this area. It's important to understand the patterns and predictors of complementary medicine use. It's also important to understand the impact on cancer care. This information can help to improve the care of patients with breast cancer and colorectal cancer. It can help to ensure that they get the best possible treatment.