Use of complementary and alternative medicine and attitudes in patients with gynecological cancers

Introduction: Research was carried out to determine gynecologic cancer patients' complementary and alternative medicine usage conditions and also their attitudes towards these treatments. Materials and Methods: It was carried out with 110 patients who had received gynecological cancer treatment at a university hospital in Izmir, between June 2012 and December 2012. Data were collected using Individual Identification Form and "The Attitude Towards Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine" scale. Results: Average age of patients was 54.08 +/- 12.48 years and it was found that 45.0% of them were primary school graduates, 54.5% had knowledge about complementary and alternative therapies, 28.2% were currently using any complementary and alternative treatment method, 61.8% were generally using herbal medicine and herbal tea, whereas 29.2% used sage. "The Complementary and Alternative Medicine Against Women' Attitude Scale" score was found low, 29.61 +/- 4.85. Conclusion: In consequence, in patients with gynecological cancer complementary and alternative medicine utilization rate was found lower, but it can be said that they have a positive attitude. It is very important for health professionals to have enough knowledge about risks and benefits of complementary and alternative medicine and to lead patients properly.