Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Individuals Presenting for Care at a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

PURPOSE: To define the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in individuals presenting for care at a comprehensive cancer center. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 17 639 individuals presenting to an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (and consortium sites) completed a questionnaire regarding CAM use. Data were analyzed using the univariate χ2 test to assess CAM use associated with a number of variables, including cancer status, age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, race, employment, and education level. RESULTS: Eighty-seven percent of individuals who completed the CAM survey acknowledged CAM therapy use within the previous 12 months. Of the 5 broad categories of CAM, the most commonly used were biologically based approaches (14 759/17 639 [83.67%]), mind-body interventions (4624/17 485 [26.45%]), manipulative and body-based therapies (3957/17 537 [22.56%]), alternative medical systems (429/15 952 [2.69%]), and energy therapies (270/15 872 [1.7%]). CAM use was more prevalent among women, non-Hispanics, Caucasians, patients 60 to 69 years of age, and those who are married, have a higher level of education, and are employed ( P < .005). CONCLUSIONS: This is the largest report of CAM use in individuals presenting for care at a comprehensive cancer center. Our analysis revealed that a very high percentage of patients utilize CAM. Because many of these CAM interventions are not studied in oncology patients, additional research on safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action are essential. Furthermore, it is important that oncologists understand CAM modalities and counsel their patients about their use.

Therapeutic Dilemma: Prognostic Factors and Outcome for Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Cervix.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to review treatment and outcomes for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the cervix at a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data for women with NET of the cervix treated at our institution, since 1999, were collected. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed with respect to age, tumor size, tobacco use, lymph node status, stage of disease, and type of treatment. RESULTS: Among 18 patients (median age, 44 years), 9 (50%) had tumors larger than 5 cm and advanced-stage disease (IB2-IV). Seven recurrences were noted (39%). Median PFS was not reached, and median OS was 72.2 months. Surgery was the only factor significantly associated with both PFS and OS (3-year PFS, 90% vs 30%, P = 0.01; 3-year OS: 89% vs 18%, P = 0.019). Age 40 years or younger and absence of lymph node metastases correlated significantly with PFS, with a trend toward improved OS. Recurrences were less likely with stage IA to IB1 compared with stages IB2 to IVA and IVB (hazards ratio, 0.33; P = 0.054), with median OS of 72.2, 19.2, and 7.4 months, respectively (P = 0.002). Although patients with tumors 4 cm or smaller had better outcomes, this factor did not reach statistical significance. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and tobacco use were not associated with survival. CONCLUSIONS: Neuroendocrine tumors of the cervix present at a relatively young age, with bulky tumors and advanced-stage disease. Surgery, younger age, smaller tumor size, early stage, and absence of lymph node involvement seem to be associated with improved survival. Nonetheless, optimal management is yet to be determined, and multimodality treatment is advocated.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Women With Gynecologic Malignancy Presenting for Care at a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices among women presenting to a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center with a gynecologic malignancy. METHODS: Women with a gynecologic malignancy who had consented to enrollment in our institutional prospective clinical registry between January 2003 and January 2014 and who had completed a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, medical histories, quality of life, and CAM use were considered for analysis. RESULTS: Among the 2508 women identified, responses to questions on CAM use were provided by 534 (21.3%). The majority of CAM question respondents were white (93.5%) and older than 50 years (76%). Overall, 464 women (87% of CAM question respondents) used at least 1 CAM therapy during the previous 12 months. The most commonly used CAM categories were biologically based approaches (83.5%), mind and body interventions (30.6%), and manipulative and body-based therapies (18.8%). The most commonly used individual CAM therapies were vitamins and minerals (78%), herbal supplements (27.9%), spiritual healing and prayer (15.1%), and deep breathing relaxation exercises (13.1%). Complementary and alternative medicine use was greatest in age groups 20 to 30 years and older than 65 years and was more prevalent among those who were widowed (P < 0.005), retired (P = 0.02), and with a higher level of education (P < 0.01). There was no association with cancer type, race, or ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS: Complementary and alternative medicine use is common among women being treated for gynecologic malignancy. Given the potential interactions of some CAM modalities with conventional treatment and the possible benefits in controlling symptoms and improving quality of life, providers should discuss CAM with their patients.