P02.52
Purpose: Some cancer patients forego recommended proven conventional treatments for cancer, instead using unproven alternative treatments. Studies and cases show this decision may lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The aims of this study are to explore, using semi-structured interviews, patient perspectives on(1) the decision to use alternative cancer treatments (ACTs), 2) expectations, 3) experiences, and 4) self-reported outcomes.
Methods: We conducted a longitudinal study among patients who decided to postpone or forego one or more conventional cancer treatments and who used ACTs instead. Baseline interviews were conducted with follow-ups scheduled at 4 months. We report here on results of baseline interviews, which were semi-structured qualitative interviews lasting approximately 90 minutes. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, then coded for major themes by at least two investigators using principles of qualitative content analysis. Variations were reconciled through refined definitions and recoding.
Results: Seven participants have been interviewed and enrollment is ongoing. All seven participants enrolled to date are female (average age, 56). Six participants had been diagnosed with breast cancer and the seventh with glioblastoma multiforme. Four themes were identified that reflect characteristics of patients who pursued ACTs: 1) philosophical orientation towards natural healing that preceded cancer diagnosis; 2) skepticism towards the conventional medical system that arose either before or during cancer treatment; 3) desire for control in treatment decisions; and 4) serious concerns about side effects of conventional cancer treatments. All participants actively sought providers who discussed alternative treatments non-judgmentally. Four participants experienced progression or recurrence, which led them to reconsider conventional treatments they had previously rejected.
Conclusion: Multiple factors including personal beliefs and prior experiences with illness and the medical system influenced decisions to use ACTs. Initial findings suggest progression or recurrence might cause patients to reconsider using conventional treatments, underscoring the importance of following these patients and maintaining open communication.
Contact: James Doolin, james.doolin@umassmed.edu
