Use of complementary/alternative therapies during chemotherapy for breast cancer. E. L. Glass, R. Blau, R. Drosick, D. K. Hawley, E. E. Lower; University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH; Oncology Hematology Care, Cincinnati, OH Abstract: Background: Use of complementary/alternative therapies (CAM) is common in breast cancer patients. However, agents used and reasons for usage are poorly understood. Methods: A self administered questionnaire included demographics, use of any or 18 specific CAM therapies, reasons for choosing CAM therapies, and timing of CAM therapies (before diagnosis, during treatment, or after completion of treatment). Results: A total of 606 breast cancer patients (pts) completed the survey, and 387 (64%) pts reported the usage of one or more CAM therapies for breast cancer. We report the 184 pts who utilized CAM during breast cancer treatment. Most common reasons for CAM therapy include: increase energy (78 pts, 42%), prevent recurrence (67 pts, 36%), relieve fatigue (61 pts, 33%), reduce hot flashes (59 pts, 32%), reduce stress (32 pts, 17%), and reduce moodiness (29 pts, 16%). Only 14 of 184 CAM pts did not use the 18 identified therapies. Most common therapies utilized were: vitamin E (131 pts, 71%), vitamin C (111 pts, 60%), vitamin B6 (54 pts, 29%), green tea (52 pts, 28%), and selenium (49 pts, 27%). All others were reported in <26 pts. Using multiple regression analysis, we compared the most common therapies to most common usage indications. A significant correlation existed between certain therapies and usage indication: to increase energy, green tea (p<0.005); preventive therapy, selenium (p<0.002) and vitamin B6 (p<0.005); relieve fatigue, green tea (p<0.0001); reduce hot flashes, vitamin E (p<0.0001) and green tea (p<0.05); reduce stress, vitamin B6 (p<0.0005) and green tea (p<0.05); and reduce moodiness, green tea (p<0.005). Conclusions: Complementary/alternative therapies are commonly used during treatment for breast cancer. Patients perceive some drugs more useful for certain indications; however, the actual effectiveness of these agents remains unknown. Abstract No: 8136 Ann's NOTE: Please notice that as usual the "actual effectiveness ... remains unknown". Time for Clinical Trials as patients are ALREADY using the substances! Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.