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Table 8 Level-differentiated use of CAM, reason(s) for use and adverse effects of treatment

From: Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the context of cancer; prevalence, reasons for use, disclosure, information received, risks and benefits reported by people with cancer in Norway 

     

Reason(s) for use (multiple choice)

  

Total

Women

Men

p-value*

To treat cancer or prevent it from spreading

To treat side effects or late effects of cancer/ cancer treatment

To strengthen the body / immune system

To increase quality of life, coping, relaxation or well-being

Other reasons

Adverse effects

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

% (n)

CAM level 2

32.8 (143)

38.9 (114)

20.3 (29)

<0.001

7 (10)

59.4 (85)

30.1 (43)

63.6 (91)

9.1 (13)

7.7 (11)

CAM level 3

78.8 (346)

83.1 (246)

69.9 (100)

0.002

15.9 (55)

48.0 (166)

73.1 (253)

79.2 (274)

13.6 (47)

9.0 (31)

CAM level 4

79.0 (347)

83.1 (246)

70.6 (101)

0.003

16.4 (57)

48.1 (167)

73.2 (254)

79.3 (275)

13.5 (47)

9.8 (34)

CAM level 5

96.1 (421)

96.6 (285)

95.1 (136)

0.444

16.9 (71)

55.8 (235)

82.7 (348)

93.8 (395)

16.2 (68)

15.2 (64)

CAM level 6

96.8 (424)

96.9 (286)

96.5 (138)

0.804

23.6 (100)

56.6 (240)

82.3 (349)

93.6 (397)

25.7 (109)

15.1 (64)

  1. *Pearson chi-square test; CAM level 2: One or more visits to CAM providers; CAM level 3: CAM level 2 and/or use of natural remedies and self-help practices; CAM level 4: CAM level 3 and/or of special diets; CAM level 5: CAM level 4 and/or use of physical activity; CAM level 6: CAM level 5 and/or use of spiritual practices