Expectations of therapeutic effects of CAM in oncology

Between patient autonomy and professional scepticism

Authors

  • Ljerka Armano UHC Sestre milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia.
  • Jasna Radić UHC Sestre milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
  • Vanja Vasiljev Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
  • Tomislav Rukavina Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
  • Martina Trnčević Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia; Nursing School Vinogradska, Zagreb, Croatia
  • Andrea Armano Aspira University of Applied Sciences, Split, Croatia
  • Aneta Perak Faculty of Teacher Education, University of Zagreb
  • Aleksandar Racz Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia; University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Health studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia

Abstract

https://doi.org/10.21860/j.16.2.1  

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly present in oncology, challenging the boundaries of conventional practice and raising important bioethical issues. This cross-sectional study investigated perceptions of the therapeutic value of CAM among 832 participants: 411 oncology patients and 421 healthcare professionals at a Croatian university hospital. Using validated CHBQ and IMAQ instruments, the results showed that patients’ expectations were significantly higher than those of physicians (p<0.001), particularly regarding psychophysical well-being (72.1%), immune system support (89.8%), and reduction of side effects (82.9%). Nurses occupied a middle position. These discrepancies reflect empirical differences and deeper ethical tensions between clinical authority and patient autonomy. CAM is a space where patients assert agency, seek meaning, and strive for holistic healing beyond biomedical reductionism. The findings underscore the need for ethical integration of evidence-based CAM into oncology care, supported by improved education and respectful dialogue. Supporting informed decision-making requires bridging epistemological gaps while respecting patients’ values.

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Published

2026-02-06

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 2 (2025): Jahr – European Journal of Bioethics

Section

Articles

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