Frenkel, M.; Morse, M.B.; Narayanan, S. Addressing Patient Requests to Add Dietary Supplements to Their Cancer Care—A Suggested Approach. Nutrients2023, 15, 5029.
Frenkel, M.; Morse, M.B.; Narayanan, S. Addressing Patient Requests to Add Dietary Supplements to Their Cancer Care—A Suggested Approach. Nutrients 2023, 15, 5029.
Frenkel, M.; Morse, M.B.; Narayanan, S. Addressing Patient Requests to Add Dietary Supplements to Their Cancer Care—A Suggested Approach. Nutrients2023, 15, 5029.
Frenkel, M.; Morse, M.B.; Narayanan, S. Addressing Patient Requests to Add Dietary Supplements to Their Cancer Care—A Suggested Approach. Nutrients 2023, 15, 5029.
Abstract
Dietary supplements are widely embraced by cancer patients seeking complementary and integrative approaches to their care. Unfortunately, many patients do not discuss supplement use with physicians, often due to perceptions of physician indifference or negativity toward supplements. This communication gap exposes patients to unreliable information sources and, potentially, unnecessary risk.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, patients increasingly value physicians who recognize their pivotal role in shaping healthcare decisions. This patient-centered perspective emphasizes the provision of evidence-based information tailored to individual needs, open discussions on potential risks, and shared decision-making. It underscores the importance of respecting patient autonomy, offering alternative options, documenting preferences, and ensuring ongoing support while coordinating with the healthcare team.
To address these needs, healthcare providers should transform their perspectives and become expert guides who embrace patients as informed, empowered participants. This approach prioritizes open dialogue that considers both facts and uncertainties regarding dietary supplement use, allowing for mutually informed decision-making.
Here, we review the literature and present a practical approach emphasizing open discussions, transparency, and respect for patient autonomy. Following this approach, healthcare providers can empower patients to navigate the complexities of dietary supplement use in the context of cancer care, ultimately safeguarding patient safety and well-being.
Keywords
Complementary medicine; alternative medicine; integrative medicine; cancer care; oncology; nutritional supplements; natural products; dietary supplements; unmet needs; patient centered care; Patient doctor communication
Subject
Medicine and Pharmacology, Oncology and Oncogenics
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
