Using Complementary Medicine alongside Conventional Medicine for Self-Care of Cancer Patients in Donmotdaeng District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) study patterns of using complementary medicine alongside conventional medicine for self-care; 2) examine factors influencing cancer patients to use complementary medicine alongside conventional medicine for self-care; and 3) assess quality of life of cancer patients using complementary medicine in conjunction with conventional medicine for self-care. A qualitative study was conducted with 10 participants selected by purposive sampling from a population of 173 patients diagnosed and living with cancer for more than five years. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, tape recording, and questionnaires.

            The study found that after using complementary medicine alongside conventional medicine for self-care, the participants reported improvements in both their physical and mental health. The factors influencing cancer patients to use complementary medicine in conjunction with conventional medicine revealed that the majority had a high level of knowledge about the use of herbal medicine. Belief factors were also high, as well as facilitating factors. Regarding the quality of life of the cancer patients treated with complementary and conventional medicine in overall and each aspects including physical, mental, social and environmental, were rated at moderate levels.

            Therefore, the use of complementary medicine alongside conventional medicine for cancer patients is an interesting and beneficial option. However, it is essential to have supervision and guidance from experts to ensure that the use of complementary medicine is safe and effective in long-term usage.