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Strahlentherapie und Onkologie

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01-10-2018 | Original Article

Complementary medicine in radiation oncology

German health care professionals’ current qualifications and therapeutic methods

Authors: Kerstin A. Kessel, Evelyn Klein, Carolin C. Hack, Stephanie E. Combs

Published in: Strahlentherapie und Onkologie | Issue 10/2018

Abstract

Introduction

Recently, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has moved more into the focus, and cancer societies such as the German Cancer Society (Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft, DKG) have established working groups to develop a guideline for CAM. The present work aims to evaluate the acceptance of CAM in the whole radiation oncology community.

Methods

We conducted an online survey on CAM and sent the modified questionnaire that was successfully distributed to all members of the Research Group on Gynecological Oncology (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Gynakologische Onkologie, AGO) of the DKG in 2014 to the members of the German Society of Radiation Oncology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Radioonkologie und Strahlentherapie, DEGRO). The survey consisted of 17 questions regarding personal information and current CAM guidelines within the workplace/clinic.

Results

A total of 143 members participated. Of these, 12% had some CAM qualification. For hematological cancer in 35% and in up to 76% for breast cancer, CAM treatment is offered in German radiation oncology facilities, mainly due to fatigue symptoms. CAM is part of routine treatment in 32.2%, 22.0% are planning to incorporate it. Most physicians advise patients to partake in sports activities and recommend dietary supplements and nutritional counseling. The cost of CAM treatment is fully covered in 9.8% of all participating facilities.

Conclusion

Today, CAM is integrated into cancer care; however, skepticism regarding its effect still exists. Evidence-based results must be generated to convince physicians of the effectiveness of CAM methods. CAM qualifications must be included in physicians’ training to improve their understanding and counseling regarding CAM options in cancer care.

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Title: Complementary medicine in radiation oncology
German health care professionals’ current qualifications and therapeutic methods
Authors: Kerstin A. Kessel
Evelyn Klein
Carolin C. Hack
Stephanie E. Combs
Publication date: 01-10-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Strahlentherapie und Onkologie / Issue 10/2018
Print ISSN: 0179-7158
Electronic ISSN: 1439-099X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00066-018-1345-8

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Complementary medicine in radiation oncology

German health care professionals’ current qualifications and therapeutic methods

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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