Awareness, perceptions, and usage of whole person integrative oncology practices: Similarities and differences between breast cancer patients and oncologists.

Abstract

e24123 Background: The use of Complementary and Lifestyle (C&L) approaches in conjunction with medical treatments is known as Integrative Oncology. While Integrative Oncology practices have been steadily rising in the past few decades, there are still awareness and education gaps that medical professionals can help address for their patients. Methods: Survey-based data collection and analysis was used to assess awareness, perceptions, and usage of Integrative Oncology. Patients were randomly sampled among breast cancer patients diagnosed within 2 years and included all stages (0-IV) and all US regions (NE, South, Midwest, West). Physicians were sampled from a panel of community and academic practices across the US, with the requirement they treat at least 10 breast cancer patients in a typical 3-month period and have been in practice for at least 6 years since residency or fellowship. Results: Survey invitations were sent to 1,901 patients and 2,758 Oncologists; 164 breast cancer patients and 115 Oncologists completed the surveys. Approximately two-thirds of Oncologists and patients agree that C&L approaches contribute to improved quality of life and well-being for patients (table row 1, 2). However, significantly more patients than Oncologists believe that Integrative Oncology also leads to better treatment outcome and survival (row 3). In addition, Oncologists are significantly more aware of C&L practices than are patients (row 4). When asked what percent of breast cancer patients they discuss C&L methods with, Oncologists report 55% average (CI: 50-60%). However, when asked how they became aware of C&L, only 28% of patients (CI: 21-35%) mention their Oncologist/cancer care team or the institution where they were treated (not in table). Ideally, patients desire information about C&L to come directly from Oncologists, but that is not the predominant model (row 5). Conclusions: Many breast cancer patients believe an Integrative approach will improve their treatment outcomes and prefer their providers to discuss this with them.[Table: see text]