Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Use of Alternative and Complementary Medicine by Colorectal Cancer Patients

This research is looking into how many people in France who have been diagnosed with bowel (colorectal) cancer also use other types of treatments, often called complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). These might include things like special diets, herbal remedies, acupuncture, or even practices like osteopathy or magnetism. Researchers want to find out how often patients use these, what kinds they use, and more importantly, why they choose them. For example, some might use them to help with side effects of treatment, improve their well-being, or simply feel more in control. The study will give us a better understanding of these choices among bowel cancer patients.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Limoges

Enrolment target

217

Start

20 Jan 2025

Estimated completion

25 Oct 2025

Colorectal Cancer

What is this study about?

This study is about understanding the choices people with bowel cancer make regarding their health care. It focuses on something called complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). When we say 'complementary,' it means using these treatments alongside your regular medical care, like chemotherapy or surgery. 'Alternative' means using them instead of standard medical treatments, which is generally not recommended by doctors for serious conditions like cancer.

Many different things can be considered CAM, such as special diets, herbal remedies, acupuncture, osteopathy, or even magnetic treatments. We know from past studies that many people with other types of cancer explore these options. Sometimes, people are looking for ways to feel better, ease side effects from their main treatments, or simply feel more in control of their health during a challenging time. This study wants to specifically look at patients with bowel cancer in France, as this hasn't been studied much before for this particular group.

The main goal is to find out how common it is for bowel cancer patients to use CAM, what specific types they are using, and the reasons behind their choices. The information gathered from this study could help doctors and nurses better understand their patients' needs and have more open conversations about all aspects of their treatment and well-being. It's really about getting a clearer picture of how patients approach their health toolkit when living with bowel cancer.

Key takeaways

Understanding use of extra treatments for bowel cancer.
Learning why patients choose complementary or alternative therapies.
Data gathered to improve patient support and care.
Participation involves answering a questionnaire.
No new treatments or risks involved for participants.
Information is for research purposes only, not medical advice.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have received a diagnosis of bowel (colorectal) cancer. You also must have had surgery for your bowel cancer between 2017 and 2022.

There are some reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if your cancer started somewhere else and spread to your bowel, or if you had cancer diagnosed at the same time as your bowel cancer. People who have certain memory problems like Alzheimer's, severe mental health conditions, or who are severely deaf and unable to communicate over the phone, would not be able to participate. Also, if you're under legal guardianship or simply don't wish to take part, that's perfectly fine.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with bowel (colorectal) cancer?
Did you have surgery for your bowel cancer between 2017 and 2022?
Is your bowel cancer your primary cancer (meaning it didn't spread from somewhere else)?
Are you able to answer questions over the phone?
Do you feel comfortable sharing information about your health choices?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire. This questionnaire will ask you about any complementary and alternative medicines or methods you might have used. The study involves answering these questions, likely over the phone, and there are no other visits, medications, or long-term follow-ups required. The total duration of your participation would only be the time it takes to complete the questionnaire.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no significant direct risks involved in this study as it only involves answering questions about your health experiences; you won't be taking any new medicines or undergoing new procedures. The main benefit is that your responses will help researchers better understand the choices bowel cancer patients make, which could ultimately lead to better support and communication between patients and their healthcare teams. Remember, you can choose to stop participating in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

limoges University Hospital
Verified postcode
Limoges, France

Common questions

What is 'CAM'?

CAM stands for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Complementary means used alongside regular medicine; Alternative means used instead of regular medicine.

Why is this study important?

It helps us understand if and why bowel cancer patients use other treatments, which can improve how doctors support them.

Do I have to try new treatments if I join?

No, this study only asks about treatments you may have already used; it doesn't involve trying anything new.

How long will it take to participate?

Participation will only take the time needed to complete a questionnaire, likely over the phone.

Will my personal details be kept private?

Yes, all your answers will be handled confidentially and your identity will be protected.