Use of Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Pediatric Oncology Patients in Chile: Prevalence and Patient Characteristics
Campos Roberto1,2,3*, Gajardo Carolina 1,2,3, Leon Pia3, Muñoz Annackaren3, Comas Catherine3
1Pediatrics Unit, Hospital Las Higueras, Chile.
2Universidad de Concepcion, Chile.
3Pediatric Oncology, Sanatorio Aleman, Chile.
*Corresponding Author: Dr. Roberto Campos Jeldres, Pediatrics Unit, Hospital Las Higueras, Chile.
https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOAPD.2025.04.013
Received: July 06, 2025
Published: July 21, 2025
Citation: Campos R, Gajardo C, Leon P, Munoz A, Comas C. Use of Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Pediatric Oncology Patients in Chile: Prevalence and Patient Characteristics. SVOA Paediatrics 2025, 4:4, 85-88. doi: 10.58624SVOAPD.2025.04.013
Abstract
The use of complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) has increased in pediatric oncology care, aiming to improve quality of life and mitigate the adverse effects of conventional treatments. This descriptive study aims to evaluate the prevalence and demographic characteristics of pediatric oncology patients using CIM in Chile. An anonymous survey was conducted among parents of patients undergoing oncology treatment, analyzing 107 valid responses. The results show a prevalence of 50.5% in the use of CIM, with limited communication between patients and medical teams regarding these practices. It is concluded that greater education and communication between healthcare professionals and patients about the use of CIM are necessary.
Keywords: Complementary Medicine, Integrative Medicine, Pediatric Oncology, Prevalence, Patient Characteristics, Chile.