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Health‐care providers’ perspectives on traditional and complementary alternative medicine of childhood cancer in Kenya
Author(s) -
Olbara Gilbert,
Parigger Josta,
Njuguna Festus,
Skiles Jodi,
Sitaresmi Mei Neni,
Gordijn Suzanne,
de Ven Peter,
Kaspers Gertjan,
Mostert Saskia
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.27309
Subject(s) - medicine , cancer , family medicine , kenya , alternative medicine , health care , traditional medicine , economics , economic growth , pathology , political science , law
Purpose Traditional and complementary alternative medicine (TCAM) use is rising globally. In many African countries, TCAM has been a way of life as the first and last resort remedy for many ailments, including cancer. Health‐care providers (HCP) should address this need properly. This study explores HCP perspectives on TCAM in Kenya. Methods This cross‐sectional study used questionnaires. HCP involved in the care of children with cancer at a Kenyan academic hospital were interviewed. Results In total, 155 HCP (response rate 79%) participated. Only 18% of HCP were positive about TCAM use. However, most HCP (85%) use TCAM themselves. More doctors (90%) than other HCP (56%) think that chemotherapy can cure cancer (P < 0.001).Thirty‐three percent of HCP believe a combination of TCAM and chemotherapy is the best way to cure cancer, while 56% think that usefulness of TCAM is underestimated in conventional medicine. Self‐prayer is regarded as most effective (58%) and safe (76%). Most harmful is witchcraft (80%). Most HCP (71%) think their knowledge about safety and efficacy of TCAM is inadequate. HCP think that their cancer patients use TCAM (97%) and that it is important that parents inform them about this (97%). However, only 5% of HCP always openly discuss TCAM with parents. Conclusions HCP need to improve their knowledge of TCAM and facilitate open communication about TCAM with families so parents feel safe to discuss their interest in it.