Patient and Physician Perceptions Toward CAM Integration in Oncology Care: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Cisplatin-Based Chemotherapy

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is becoming increasingly prevalent among cancer patients, yet there are gaps in communication between patients and healthcare providers . This cross-sectional study examined perceptions of patient and physician toward CAM integration in oncology care among breast cancer patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy. A total of 100 breast cancer patients undergoing cisplatin therapy in Gujarat, India, were enrolled with 25 oncology healthcare professionals. Structured questionnaires were used for assessing CAM awareness, usage patterns, communication behaviors, and attitudes toward integration. Results revealed that 76% of patients used at least one CAM modality, with yoga (54%), dietary supplements (48%), and Ayurvedic medicines (42%) being most common. However, only 38% disclosed CAM use to their oncologists. Barriers to disclosure included fear of disapproval (48%), perception that physicians were uninterested (35%), and lack of physician inquiry (52%). Healthcare professionals demonstrated mixed attitudes, with 64% acknowledging potential benefits for symptom management but 72% expressing concerns about herb-drug interactions and lack of evidence. There were significant gaps between patient expectations and physician knowledge regarding CAM therapies. Both groups agreed that better integration frameworks, evidence-based guidelines, and improved communication protocols are essential. The study concludes that bridging the perception gap through enhanced education, structured communication strategies, and integrative care models can optimize cancer care outcomes while respecting patient autonomy and holistic treatment preferences.