Survey on the Use of Questionable Methods of Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Background

Despite the improvement of cancer treatments, unproven and useless therapies are widely adopted among cancer patients and their families. Little information is available on the actual magnitude of such a phenomenon.

Methods

Two anonymous, similarly aimed surveys were independently carried out in Italy and Argentina on cancer patients and their families by two research groups.

Results

Respectively 563 and 400 questionnaires were distributed. The percentage of patients and/or families involved in unsound care (17%) was similar in both surveys. Of these treatments, 20%-38% were proposed by physicians, but relatives, friends and mass-media had an equally important role. The costs of such care was difficult to estimate.

Conclusions

Real and exhaustive efforts are needed by Health Care Organizations, which must execute a policy of information and education towards the public and professionals, as well as declare unethical the use of unproven therapies which claim cancer cure but simply create false hopes. All oncologists should be aware of the use of these treatments for cancer patients, even concomitantly with conventional care.