Aims
The safety and side-effects of 15 non-pharmacological interventions used as a therapy for cancer were evaluated using published literature. A literature review was undertaken which aimed to identify the number of literature items (within a defined time period) which related to specific non-pharmacological interventions. The review also identified the type of cancer population/s which had been targeted, the type of symptoms for which the intervention had been used, and the number of literature items which discussed safety or side-effects.
Methods
A comprehensive assessment of literature was conducted (rather than a systematic review), using a consistent search and evaluation strategy. World-wide literature published during the period January 2001 to December 2011 was assessed.
Results
Three hundred and twenty-five items of literature were identified for 15 non-pharmacological interventions used in cancer populations: Acupuncture, Aromatherapy, Biofeedback, Exercise, Meditation, Music, Visualization/Guided Imagery, Yoga, Kinesiology, Massage, Reflexology, Healing Touch, Qi Gong, Reiki, and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. The majority of literature identified was for Acupuncture and Exercise. The populations most using these non-pharmacological interventions were women with breast cancer, patients undergoing chemotherapy, and patients in the palliative phase. The symptoms most addressed were: anxiety and depression, fatigue and pain. Overall, Acupuncture and Exercise reported the most side-effects; for all other interventions issues related to safety and the occurrence of side-effects were rarely mentioned.
Conclusions
The lack of identification or discussion of the safety and side effects of non-pharmacological interventions used as a therapy for cancer was a surprising finding. More research focusing on this aspect is highly recommended. The development and publication of clinical practice guidelines for the safe use of non-pharmacological interventions for cancer populations is recommended.