Naslov
Osteosarcoma and alternative medicine in children

Autori
Žganjer, Mirko ; Bašković, Marko

Izvornik
Polish Journal of Paediatrics (0031-3939) 97 (2022), 2; 165-166

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, pismo uredniku, stručni

Ključne riječi
complementary medicine ; alternative medicine ; osteosarcoma ; children

Sažetak
The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widespread throughout the world and encompasses a wide range of different approaches. Research shows that in developed countries a significant number of people use various methods of complementary and alternative medicine in their treatment. Scientists believe that the effect of most alternative therapies can be attributed to the placebo effect. The most commonly used methods are homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, bioenergy therapy, dietotherapy, consumption of medicinal herbs, vitamins, minerals, etc., and each of these methods has a whole range of variations. A meta- analysis in several countries has shown that more than half of all cancer patients use CAM methods. Most CAM products are over-the-counter and belong to the group of dietary supplements. An increasing number of cancer patients are taking CAM products without the knowledge of their doctors, believing that such treatment will help them recover faster or even lead to a cure. It is important to note that when it comes to treating children, the percentage of parents who opt for CAM methods is no less. Parents often do not even consult paediatrician, but do everything on their own initiative, consulting with unverified sources of information. The ethical question is who is the appropriate decision maker in this case, the parent or the doctor. Although conventional medicine provides far more evidence, on the basis of which the doctor makes his decision, it is the parent who must also consider all reasonable options and decide what is in the best interests of the child. We are aware that the legislation on the rights of patients and their parents differs from state to state, so there is no uniform pattern of action. The doctor and the parent, based on common sense and the latest guidelines, must make the best decision for the child.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Kliničke medicinske znanosti, Integrativna bioetika (prirodne, tehničke, biomedicina i zdravstvo, biotehničke, društvene, humanističke znanosti)

POVEZANOST RADA