Work

Does anxiety influence the use of complementary or alternative medicine among cancer patients?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which patients' anxiety due to their cancerous disease has an influence on the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods. METHODS: 230 patients completed an anonymous voluntary questionnaire that was sent to outpatient oncological facilities participating in the survey. This questionnaire included standardised tests such as the Allgemeine Selbstwirksamkeit Kurzskala (ASKU, self-efficacy short scale) and the State-Trait-Anxiety-Inventory (STAI) as well as socio-demographic information and a section on CAM use. Statistical analyses and regression models were used to identify correlations. RESULTS: Female gender, high level of education (high school diploma or university degree) and increased trait anxiety were related to CAM use. All other variables analysed showed no significant results. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that trait anxiety and sociodemographic factors significantly influence CAM usage among cancer patients. Physicians and health care providers should consider this in consultations to guarantee the best possible care for patients.

Source: Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology

DOI: 10.1007/s00432-025-06173-2