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Kranjcec I, Abdovic S, Buljan D, Matijasic N, Slukan M, Stepan J. Complementary Medicine Practice and Use of Dietary Supplements in Pediatric Cancer Patients in Croatia. Cureus 2022; 14:e30246. [PMID: 36381903 PMCID: PMC9652699 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has become a customary practice among pediatric cancer patients worldwide. The frequency of its use by pediatric cancer patients in Croatia has not been previously determined. Methodology: In order to establish the frequency and detect factors affecting the use of CAM, a single-center, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Children's Hospital Zagreb during a two-year period. The patients' parents and caregivers were offered an anonymous, multi-item questionnaire that collected socio-economic and clinical data, as well as details on CAM and dietary supplement practice. Results: Almost half of the participants reported CAM and more than two-thirds reported dietary supplement consumption, predominantly in the intensive phase of the treatment. Factors regarding children or parents had no effect on CAM and supplement utilization. Herbal medicine, vitamins, and minerals were among the most commonly used items. Every 10th child experienced at least one adverse event during CAM and supplement use. Conclusion: Awareness of the CAM and dietary supplement application in pediatric oncology patients needs to be raised due to the potential interactions with conventional treatment modalities. For this reason, it is extremely important to inform parents and caregivers of pediatric oncology patients about the use of CAM and dietary supplements to predict and mitigate the occurrence and intensity of the side effects. In the majority of our cases, the patient's guardians informed the healthcare professionals about the CAM and supplement implementation in their children, therefore, they were offered additional information about the possible negative impact of CAM and supplement use on standard medical care in a timely manner.
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Afungchwi GM, Kruger M, Hesseling P, van Elsland S, Ladas EJ, Marjerrison S. Survey of the use of traditional and complementary medicine among children with cancer at three hospitals in Cameroon. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29675. [PMID: 35441798 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is lack of diagnostic and treatment resources with variable access to childhood cancer treatment in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), which may lead to subsequent poor survival. The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and types of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) used in Cameroon. Secondarily, we explored determinants of T&CM use, associated costs, perceived benefits and harm, and disclosure of T&CM use to medical team. METHODS A prospective, cross-sectional survey among parents and carers of children younger than 15 years of age who had a cancer diagnosis and received cancer treatment at three Baptist Mission hospitals between November 2017 and February 2019. RESULTS Eighty participants completed the survey. Median patient age was 8.1 years (IQR4.1-11.1). There was significant availability (90%) and use (67.5%) of T&CM, whereas 24% thought T&CM would be good for cancer treatment. Common T&CM remedies included herbs and other plant remedies or teas taken by mouth, prayer for healing purposes and skin cutting. Living more than five hours away from the treatment center (P = 0.030), anticipated costs (0.028), and a habit of consulting a traditional healer when sick (P = 0.006) were associated with the use of T&CM. T&CM was mostly paid for in cash (53.7%) or provided free of charge (29.6%). Of importance was the fact that nearly half (44%) did not want to disclose the use of TM to their doctor. CONCLUSION Pediatric oncology patients used T&CM before and during treatment but were unlikely to disclose its use to the child's health care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn M Afungchwi
- Childhood Cancer Program, Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mariana Kruger
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Hesseling
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sabine van Elsland
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Elena J Ladas
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Stacey Marjerrison
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Pediatric and Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Lam CS, Au KY, Hung HY, Chou HW, Leung AWK, Li CK, Koon HK, Cheung YT. Integrating Complementary Medicine Into the Care of Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Brief Report on the Preliminary Framework and Implementation of an Educational Program. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 3:897677. [PMID: 36189053 PMCID: PMC9397837 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.897677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Existing educational programs typically include limited information on traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) for survivors of childhood cancer. Objectives This brief report presents the preliminary results of an educational program that aims to promote the safe and effective use of Chinese medicine (CM) among survivors in Hong Kong. Methods Survivors of childhood cancer, their caregivers, and oncology practitioners were invited to participate in a program that consists of two didactic seminars and a written educational booklet that disseminated information on the use of CM. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate participants' receptivity toward and perceived relevance of the program. The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework was used to discuss the impact of the intervention. Results Reach: A total of 174 participants attended the seminars, and the seminar recording received over 380 views on social media platforms since April 2021. The hardcopy of the educational booklet was distributed to 43 recipients. The web-version of the booklet was sent to 67 participants and downloaded 143 times. Efficacy: The majority found that the content of the seminar useful (mean score = 5.04/6 points), especially the CM exercise (mean score = 4.88/6 points) and dietary advice (mean score = 4.99/6 points). Intention to adopt: The survivors (or their caregivers) reported that they would adopt advice on food therapies (83.3%) and traditional Chinese health exercises (55.6%) during survivorship. Conclusion The preliminary data on patient preferences will be applied to further develop educational materials and to establish a TCIM referral network within the cancer survivor community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Sing Lam
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kwok Yin Au
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hing Yu Hung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ho Wing Chou
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alex Wing Kwan Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Kong Li
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ho Kee Koon
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Ho Kee Koon
| | - Yin Ting Cheung
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Yin Ting Cheung
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Rahmani Barouji S, Shahabi A, Torbati M, Fazljou SMB, Yari Khosroushahi A. Mummy Induces Apoptosis Through Inhibiting of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Human Breast Cancer Cells. Galen Med J 2021; 9:e1812. [PMID: 34466597 PMCID: PMC8343979 DOI: 10.31661/gmj.v9i0.1812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mummy (Iranian pure shilajit) is a remedy with possessing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. This study aimed to examine mummy effects on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasiveness of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer (BC) cell lines with underlying its mechanism. Materials and Methods:
The dose-dependent inhibitory effect of the mummy on cell proliferation in vitro was determined using the MTT assay. Flow cytometry and 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride staining were respectively used for quantitative and qualitative analysis of cellular apoptosis, and gene expression analysis was conducted using real-time PCR.
Results: MDA-MB-231 showed more sensitivity than the MCF-7 cell line to the anticancer activity of mummy, while mummy did not exhibit significant cell cytotoxicity against human normal cells (MCF-10A). The gene expression profile demonstrated a significant decrease in TGF-β1, TGF-βR1, TWIST1, NOTCH1, CTNNB1, SRC along with an increase in E-cadherin mRNA levels in mummy treated cells compared to the untreated control group (P≤0.05). Conclusion: Mummy triggers inhibition of EMT and metastasis in breast cancer cells mainly through the downregulation of TGFβ1 activity, and more studies required to find its specific anticancer activity with details.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solmaz Rahmani Barouji
- Department of Persian Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Arman Shahabi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Molecular Medicine Department, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammadali Torbati
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Ahmad Yari Khosroushahi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Correspondence to: Ahmad Yari Khosroushahi, Faculty of Advanced Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, Tabriz, Iran Telephone Number: +98 41 33363234 Email Address:
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Afungchwi GM, Kruger M, Kouya F, Tih P, McCormick P, Pondy-Ongotsoyi AH, Hesseling PB. Two decades of childhood cancer care in Cameroon: 2000-2020. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e28997. [PMID: 33719184 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Before the year 2000, there was no dedicated childhood cancer service in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to investigate the progress made with pediatric oncology care in Cameroon from 2000 to 2020. METHOD A literature search was conducted for published articles on childhood cancer in Cameroon and relevant documents, and conference abstracts were reviewed. The articles were analyzed under the themes: awareness, diagnosis, epidemiology, treatment, outcome, advocacy, partnerships, traditional and complementary medicine, palliative care, and capacity building. RESULTS Low awareness on childhood cancer was addressed with education activities targeting the general population and health care professionals. Cancer diagnosis was achieved with cytology, histology, and simple imaging. Management for common and curable cancers was implemented with use of modified treatment regimens for low- and middle-income settings. Nutritional support was shown to mitigate the effects of malnutrition on treatment toxicity, and support was provided for transportation and accommodation. There was good collaboration between the pediatric oncology professionals nationally and twinning with international partners. Capacity building activities led to the availability of three pediatric oncologists and pediatric oncology-trained nurses. Advocacy nationally led to the support of the Ministry of Health with pediatric oncology-specific priority actions in the latest national cancer control plan. CONCLUSION Childhood cancer should receive the necessary attention of health care policymakers in Cameroon. With continued commitment of government, nongovernmental organizations, charities, childhood cancer specialists, patient and parent groups, there should be an improved future for children with cancer in Cameroon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Mbah Afungchwi
- Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mariana Kruger
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Francine Kouya
- Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Pius Tih
- Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | | | - Angele-Hermine Pondy-Ongotsoyi
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Mother and Child Center, Chantal Biya Foundation, Yaounde, Cameroon.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Peter B Hesseling
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Tortora S, Raghunathan NJ, Seifert G, Sibinga EMS, Ghelman R. A comprehensive definition for pediatric integrative oncology through an international consensus. Complement Ther Med 2021; 57:102678. [PMID: 33548478 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Suzi Tortora
- Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, United States.
| | - Nirupa J Raghunathan
- Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, United States
| | - Georg Seifert
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology and Hematology, Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; Instituto De Tratamento Do Câncer Infantil (ITACI), Departamento De Pediatria, Faculdade De Medicina, Universidade De São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Ghelman
- Instituto De Tratamento Do Câncer Infantil (ITACI), Departamento De Pediatria, Faculdade De Medicina, Universidade De São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Brazilian Academic Consortium for Integrative Health, Brazil
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7
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Longhi A, Setola E, Ferrari C, Carretta E. Complementary and alternative medicine in sarcoma patients treated in an Italian sarcoma center. J Cancer Res Ther 2021; 17:516-522. [PMID: 34121701 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_348_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Bone and soft-tissue sarcoma are rare tumors. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is often used in cancer patients however limited data are available in sarcoma patients. The aim of the present study is to explore the use of CAM in patients with bone and soft-tissue sarcoma. Methods Patients in follow-up visit for high grade bone or soft-tissue sarcoma at the Rizzoli outpatient clinic from September 1, 2014, to December 31, 2015, were asked, after written consent, to fill out a questionnaire with items pertaining to sociodemographic factors and their use of CAM before, during, or after chemotherapy. Results Four hundred and sixty-nine participated to the survey: 409 were adults and 60 were <18 years old. The percentage of use of CAM in adults was 44.7% and in minors 38.3%. The most common type of CAM was vitamins and minerals, followed by phytotherapy and homeopathy. The majority of patients used CAM after the sarcoma diagnosis. None used CAM alone instead of conventional chemotherapy. Benefits from use of CAM were reported by 75% of patients (some benefit in 53% plus high benefit in others 22%) and side effects in 6.7%. A significant correlation was found with CAM use and female gender, young age (18-44) and higher education. Disclosure to the oncologist was 56% and 69% to their family doctors. Conclusions This study shows that CAM use is frequent among adults and pediatric patients with bone and soft tissue sarcoma as in other cancer patients. Moreover, the profile of these Italian CAM consumers in sarcoma patients is similar to other studies. Patients disclosure to their oncologist or physician about the use of CAM was similar to other Italian studies, but higher compared to other international studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Longhi
- Chemotherapy Unit, IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Setola
- Chemotherapy Unit, IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cristina Ferrari
- Chemotherapy Unit, IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Carretta
- Statistical Service, IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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Afungchwi GM, Hesseling P, van Elsland SL, Kouya F, Kruger M. Destitution, treatment adherence and survival of children with Burkitt lymphoma in a twinning programme in Northwest Cameroon. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27946. [PMID: 31436364 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a curable childhood cancer. Treatment adherence is crucial for a good outcome, but is potentially problematic in low- and middle-income countries owing to parental financial constraints. AIMS To investigate the association of destitution with treatment adherence and its effect on the survival of patients with BL. METHODS Patients received free medical treatment from a twinning programme at two Cameroon Baptist hospitals. A destitution assessment questionnaire, based on socioeconomic status, was completed at diagnosis. Medical records were reviewed for treatment adherence and survival. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare groups. Kaplan-Meier plots were used to calculate overall survival, and log-rank chi-squared tests when comparing survival rates between patient subgroups. Significance was measured at P < .05. RESULTS The 225 children with BL had a mean age of 8.2 years (median 8.0) and the overall survival was 52%. The mean family destitution score was 56% on a linear scale. Few (8%) patients delayed treatment appointments. A quarter (25%) experienced more than a 1-week follow-up delay and 9.8% absconded within 1 year. The destitution score was not significantly associated with delay of treatment, but with delay in follow-up (P < .001). Guardian relationship (single mother) and patient's age were significantly associated with overall survival (P = .025). CONCLUSIONS Though linked to poor follow-up, destitution was not significantly associated with absconding patients, poor outcome or poor adherence to treatment, probably due to comprehensive financial support from the international twinning programme. However, additional support for single mothers should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn M Afungchwi
- Department of Paediatrics, Mbingo Baptist Hospital, Banso, Cameroon.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Hesseling
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sabine L van Elsland
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Francine Kouya
- Department of Paediatrics, Mbingo Baptist Hospital, Banso, Cameroon
| | - Mariana Kruger
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Jong MC, Boers I, van Wietmarschen H, Busch M, Naafs MC, Kaspers GJL, Tissing WJE. Development of an evidence-based decision aid on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and pain for parents of children with cancer. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:2415-2429. [PMID: 31493135 PMCID: PMC7083801 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop an evidence-based decision aid for parents of children with cancer and to help guide them in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for cancer care. METHODS This study had a mixed research design. The needs of parents were investigated by survey and focus group. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed on the effectiveness of CAM using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Clinical experts were interviewed and a decision aid on CAM treatment for pain was developed. RESULTS Parents emphasized the importance of reliable information on CAM, focusing primarily on communication and a broad spectrum of complaints related to cancer treatment. The decision aid on CAM for pain included five modalities based on 11 randomized control trials (RCTs): hypnotherapy, mind-body techniques, massage, healing touch, and music therapy. Meta-analysis could be performed on hypnotherapy, which significantly reduced cancer-related procedural pain compared with standard care (MD, - 1.37; 95% CI, - 1.60, - 1.15; P < 0.00001) and attention control (MD, - 1.13; 95% CI, - 1.34, - 0.94; P < 0.00001), and massage, demonstrating no effect on pain compared with standard care (MD, - 0.77; 95% CI, - 1.82, 0.28; P = 0.15). Research evidence and supplementary information from clinical practice and patient were incorporated in a website-based decision aid. CONCLUSIONS An evidence-based decision aid was developed to support parents of children with cancer in making decisions about CAM for pain management. Next steps will be to expand the website to include additional childhood cancer-related complaints and to evaluate its use in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miek C Jong
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Holmgatan 10, 851 70, Sundsvall, Sweden.
| | - Inge Boers
- Department Nutrition & Health, Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ, Bunnik, The Netherlands
| | - Herman van Wietmarschen
- Department Nutrition & Health, Louis Bolk Institute, Kosterijland 3-5, 3981 AJ, Bunnik, The Netherlands
| | - Martine Busch
- Van Praag Institute, Springweg 7, 3511 VH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne C Naafs
- Netherlands Childhood Cancer Parent Organization VOKK, Schouwstede 2b, 3431 JB, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Gertjan J L Kaspers
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Paediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wim J E Tissing
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department Paediatric Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Jatia S, Prasad M, Paradkar A, Bhatia A, Narula G, Chinnaswamy G, Vora T, Gomle S, Sankaran H, Banavali S. Holistic support coupled with prospective tracking reduces abandonment in childhood cancers: A report from India. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27716. [PMID: 30900819 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High cure rates of over 80% in childhood cancers reported from high-income countries (HICs) are not replicated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Treatment abandonment (TxA) is an important reason for this poorer outcome. We assessed the effect of a holistic support group approach coupled with prospective tracking on TxA in children with cancer in a limited-resources environment. METHODS In 2010, all existing nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) working with childhood cancer at our hospital were brought together to form a pediatric cancer foundation with the aim of providing holistic support to the patient and family, including financial, psychosocial, lodging, educational, and bereavement support. Simultaneously, prospective tracking of all children with a Time-Responsive Electronic Abandonment Tracking (TREAT) system was also established. The impact of these measures on TxA over the 2009-2016 period was compared using the log-rank test. RESULTS The annual rate of abandonment reduced from 20% in 2009 to 10.4% in 2010 and 5.2% in 2011. It has been consistently between 3% and 6% from 2012 to 2016 (P -0.04). TxA after the initiation of treatment dropped from 9% in 2009 to 1% in 2016 (P -0.02), while refusal to initiate treatment dropped from 11% to 2.7% (P -0.23) over the same period. CONCLUSIONS A holistic support group consisting of the hospital team, as well as existing NGOs and governmental organizations, along with a systematic and prospective tracking system significantly reduced abandonment in a resource-constrained setting. This cost-effective holistic support group may be applicable in other LMICs with similar healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Jatia
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Maya Prasad
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Amey Paradkar
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Ameeta Bhatia
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Gaurav Narula
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Girish Chinnaswamy
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Tushar Vora
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Sanjay Gomle
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Hari Sankaran
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Shripad Banavali
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
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Arji G, Safdari R, Rezaeizadeh H, Abbassian A, Mokhtaran M, Hossein Ayati M. A systematic literature review and classification of knowledge discovery in traditional medicine. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2019; 168:39-57. [PMID: 30392889 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2018.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE Despite the importance of machine learning methods application in traditional medicine there is a no systematic literature review and a classification for this field. This is the first comprehensive literature review of the application of data mining methods in traditional medicine. METHOD We reviewed 5 database between 2000 to 2017 based on the Kitchenham systematic review methodology. 502 articles were identified and reviewed for their relevance to application of machine learning methods in traditional medicine, 42 selected papers were classified and categorized on four dimension; 1) application domain of data mining techniques in traditional medicine; 2) the data mining methods most frequently used in traditional medicine; 3) main strength and limitation of data mining techniques in traditional medicine; 4) the performance evaluation methods in data mining methods in traditional medicine. RESULT The result obtained showed that main application domain of data mining techniques in traditional medicine was related to syndrome differentiation. Bayesian Networks (BNs), Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Support Vector Machines (SVMs) were recognized as being the methods most frequently applied in traditional medicine. Furthermore, each data mining techniques has its own strength and limitations when applied in traditional medicine. Single scaler methods were frequently used for performance evaluation of data mining methods. CONCLUSION Machine learning methods have become an important research field in traditional medicine. Our research provides information about this methods by examining the related articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goli Arji
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Safdari
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hossein Rezaeizadeh
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Abbassian
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrshad Mokhtaran
- Assistant Professor of Medical Informatics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Ayati
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
The diagnosis of cancer in a child leaves parents and families devastated and vulnerable. In an effort to do everything possible, families often choose an integrative medicine approach to their child's care. Surveys have found that 31%-84% of children with cancer use complementary and alternative medicine and most often as supportive care agents. Several systematic reviews have demonstrated a clinical benefit for some select therapies; however, the safety and efficacy of the combination of biological therapies with conventional treatment remain largely unknown and garner concern due to the potential for interactions with conventional therapy. Given the sustained use and potential benefit of integrative medicine, additional research is warranted in pediatric oncology. Utilizing the available literature, clinical providers should aim to conduct open and nonjudgmental discussions with families about the use of integrative medicine so as to guide the safe integration of the two modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Ladas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Columbia University Medical Center , New York, New York
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