COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE WITH SPIRITUALITY AS HOLISTIC APPROACH: WHAT CANCER PATIENTS THINK?

Dr Dinesh Kumar; Dr. N.K. Goel; Dr A.K. Pandey

Volume : IX, Issue : VII, July - 2020

COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE WITH SPIRITUALITY AS HOLISTIC APPROACH: WHAT CANCER PATIENTS THINK?

Dr Dinesh Kumar, Dr. N. K. Goel, Dr A. K. Pandey

Abstract :

Introduction: Holistic medicine leads towards optimal attainment of the physical, mental emotional, social and spiritual aspects of health and lifestyle values. With growing incidence of cancer, it is of prime interest to study views of cancer patients regarding spirituality and holistic approach of cancer cure. Objectives: To explore opinions of cancer patients regarding spirituality, complementary and alternative Medicine (CAM) and holistic approach and its interrelationships with other factors. Methods: Results of present study are based on detailed findings under ICMR sponsored project “Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use among Cancer Patients”. As part of project, views of cancer patients regarding CAM use, holistic medicine, perceptions and beliefs regarding spirituality were explored by interview method. Results: The most common argument in favor of CAM was being close to nature (64.3%) followed by no side effects (63.0%). Spirituality as a CAM method was ranked at 1st place by 21.1% patients. About 82% patients were having faith in spirituality as CAM though 65% of them were not having any spiritual guru. Faith in God of 68% patients was increased and 25.6% patients expressed anger towards God after suffering from the disease. Being peaceful and calm were the most preferred characteristics. Conclusions: The findings of the present study support the role of spirituality as CAM in cancer cure. Felt need expressing indirect preferences to holistic approach was felt by patients. More in depth studies are required to ascertain the casual relationship.