Development of an Integrative Medicine Program for Breast Cancer Patients at the Largest Tertiary Referral Center in Thailand
O-charoenrat P, MD, PhD1, Sa-nguanraksa D, MD, PhD1, Thumrongtaradol T, MSc1, Kummalue T, MD, PhD2
Affiliation : 1 Division of Head-Neck and Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand 2 Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Background : Studies have shown several benefits of combining complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with conventional
treatment in cancer therapy. This combined therapeutic approach is referred to as integrative medicine (IM). CAM has not yet
gained acceptance by clinicians at several large hospitals in Thailand, and some cancer patients are using CAM without informing
their physician.
Objective : The aim of this study was to investigate CAM-related opinions, interests, knowledge, and practices of Thai breast cancer
patients for the purpose of developing an IM program at Siriraj Hospital, the largest referral center in Thailand.
Materials and Methods : Data relating to interest and frequency of participation in the following activities (both before and after
cancer diagnosis) were collected: acupuncture, massage, tai chi, aerobic dance, herbal medicine use, aerobic exercise, detox, and
meditation.
Results : Our results showed a decrease in frequency in all activities, except for tai chi, herbal medicine use, and meditation, after
cancer diagnosis. The activities with the highest level of participation were massage, herbal medicine use, aerobic dance, aerobic
exercise, and meditation. Regarding interests, 81% and 54% of patients expressed interest in joining meditation and exercise
programs, respectively.
Conclusion : The results of this study support and will guide the establishment of an IM program in order to improve quality of life
for breast cancer patients in Thailand.
Keywords : Breast cancer, Complementary and alternative medicine, Exercise, Integrative medicine, Meditation, Quality of life
