Use of Complementary and Integrative Medicine Among Patients With Glioblastoma Multiforme Seen at a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Background Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most aggressive and lethal tumors, with a median survival of 12–15 months. Many patients use complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) therapies to supplement their cancer treatment. Objective To determine the prevalence of CIM use and identify the most frequently used types of CIM in a cohort of patients with GBM seen at a tertiary care medical center in the United States. Methods An anonymous survey was mailed through the US Postal Service from August 1, 2019, through February 21, 2020, to patients with GBM. Results A total of 346 surveys were mailed, and 146 responses (42%) were received. The median age of respondents was 61 years (range, 52–68 years), and 85 (58%) were male. Most patients had undergone surgery (90%), chemotherapy (96%), and radiotherapy (95%). The median time from diagnosis of GBM to survey participation was 18 months (range, 12–31 months). Most respondents (81%) used some form of CIM, most frequently meditation (22%), relaxation and other stress management techniques (19%), chiropractic therapy (16%), and acupuncture (12%). Compared with men, women more commonly meditated (32% vs 16%; P = .046) and practiced yoga (20% vs 6%; P = .04). We observed age-based differences, with younger patients more commonly meditating, practicing relaxation and stress management techniques, and receiving chiropractic therapy ( P < .05 for all). Conclusions Providers should encourage patients with GBM to discuss their interest in CIM therapies and guide them to evidence-based treatments that may help improve their quality of life.