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Abstract
This study addressed the use of alternative medicine, here called non-proven therapies
(NPTs), among hospitalised Norwegian cancer patients. A total of 126 (20%) of the
assessable 630 patients were users of NPTs. Approximately 43% of all patients and
more than 60% of the users of NPTs stated that they would like NPTs to be an option
in hospitals belonging to the National Health Service. Most users of NPTs (82%) consulted
traditional medicine first, while 15% started treatment with NPTs simultaneously.
Users of NPTs reported to have received less hope of a cure (30%) from their physicians
than non-users (50%). Users mostly learned about NPTs from friends and relatives.
Most users believed that NPTs might give them strength and relieve their symptoms.
Very few patients believed in a cure (10%). Nearly 40% were uncertain of any effect
of the NPTs or felt there had been no effect. 4 patients reported adverse effects.
15 patients had been treated abroad, most of them in Denmark. Expenses incurred through
use of NPTs were mostly moderate, but some patients used large sums of money. Patients'
opinions on whether or not the treatment had been expensive were closely linked to
their anticipation of the effect of the treatment.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
November 28,
1996
Received in revised form:
October 11,
1996
Received:
August 19,
1996
Identification
Copyright
© 1997 Published by Elsevier Inc.
