Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Women at Genetic Risk for Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Christine M. Mueller, Phuong L. Mai, Jaime Bucher, June A. Peters, Jennifer T. Loud, Mark H. Greene
Primary Institution: National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health
Hypothesis
What are the rates and patterns of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among women at increased genetic risk of breast cancer?
Conclusion
The study found that 78% of BRCA mutation carriers reported using CAM, indicating a high prevalence comparable to breast cancer patients and survivors.
Supporting Evidence
- 78% of BRCA+ women reported using CAM.
- 34% of participants used three or more CAM therapies.
- Older age, higher education, and previous cancer diagnosis were associated with increased CAM use.
Takeaway
Many women who are at risk for breast cancer use alternative treatments to help them feel better, just like women who have had breast cancer.
Methodology
Participants completed a pre-visit telephone interview about their CAM use and were evaluated using logistic regression to assess associations with various factors.
Potential Biases
The sample may not be representative of all BRCA mutation carriers as it consisted mainly of highly-educated white women.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, lacked detailed information on the frequency and duration of CAM use, and had a relatively small sample size.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly white (97.6%), highly educated (92.7% attended college), and mostly married (72%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.006
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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