Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Treated with Mistletoe Extract
Author Information
Author(s): Büssing Arndt, Raak Christa, Ostermann Thomas
Primary Institution: Center for Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke
Hypothesis
The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the effectiveness of the fermented plant extract Iscador in improving quality of life in cancer patients.
Conclusion
Iscador treatment might have moderate beneficial short-time effects on quality of life-associated dimensions and psychosomatic self-regulation.
Supporting Evidence
- Thirteen studies reported positive effects in favor of Iscador application.
- A random-effect meta-analysis estimated the overall treatment effect at standardized mean difference = 0.56.
- All studies included were prospective and had a parallel group design.
Takeaway
This study looked at how a mistletoe extract called Iscador can help cancer patients feel better. It found that it might help improve their quality of life.
Methodology
A meta-analysis of 13 controlled studies was conducted to assess the effects of Iscador on quality of life in cancer patients.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias and confounding factors were noted, particularly in non-randomized studies.
Limitations
The methodological quality of the studies was poor, and many did not report compliance or follow-up data.
Participant Demographics
The studies included a diverse range of cancer patients, but specific demographic details were not consistently reported.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Confidence Interval
0.41 to 0.71
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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