Complementary and alternative medicine use in cancer patients in India

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Complementary and alternative medicine use in cancer patients in India”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Cancer:
Cancer is a major public health concern globally and particularly prevalent in India. The study explores how patients with varying types of cancer utilize complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for treatment, highlighting the patterns of usage and the reasons behind their choices, especially in an underserved region.

2) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in oncology highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare, especially for cancer patients who often seek diverse therapies alongside conventional treatments.

3) Study (Studying):
The study in question investigates the usage patterns of complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients in India. It aims to gather data on how CAM is perceived, its effectiveness, and the demographics of the patients choosing such therapies, providing essential insights for future healthcare strategies.

4) India:
India possesses a rich history of traditional medicine systems including Ayurveda. The increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) reflects cultural beliefs and practices among cancer patients, especially in rural areas where modern medical facilities and awareness may be limited.

5) Table:
The tables within the study provide valuable data that summarize the demographic characteristics, prevalence, usage patterns, and treatment modalities of CAM among cancer patients. They serve as essential tools for readers to quickly understand complex information regarding the study's findings.

6) Indian:
The term Indian pertains to the cultural and regional context of the study. India's traditional practices, particularly Ayurveda, shape the perception and usage patterns of complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients, reflecting a blend of historical and contemporary medical practices.

7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, emphasizes balance within the body and the use of natural remedies. Its prominence among cancer patients using complementary and alternative medicine highlights the ongoing reliance on ancient practices for healing, often especially in underserved regions of the country.

8) Reason:
Understanding the reasons why cancer patients choose complementary and alternative medicine is critical to improving overall healthcare. Insights into patients' motivations can inform future research, treatment approaches, and healthcare policies, ultimately helping to bridge gaps between traditional and modern medical practices.

9) Disease:
Disease is a perturbed state of health that may be chronic, severe, and debilitating, often prompting patients to explore various treatment options. The study focuses on cancer as a major disease, examining how affected individuals seek alternatives in their care and management.

10) Yoga:
Yoga, as a practice promoting physical and mental well-being, is frequently included in complementary and alternative medicine. Its benefits extend to cancer patients, offering stress relief, pain management, and improvement in quality of life, thus contributing to a holistic approach to health and healing.

11) Family:
Family plays a crucial role in shaping the health beliefs and treatment decisions of patients. The study reveals that many cancer patients were influenced by family members in their choice to pursue complementary and alternative medicine, reflecting social support systems in healthcare.

12) Gupta:
Gupta is a common surname in India, often associated with numerous studies in the context of healthcare. In the presented study, the mention of Gupta signifies the collaborative efforts of various researchers aiming to understand the impact of complementary and alternative medicine among Indian cancer patients.

13) Fear:
Fear, particularly of conventional treatments, significantly impacts patients' choices in managing their health. The study addresses how fear, including fear of side effects from chemotherapy and radiation, drives cancer patients towards complementary and alternative treatments like Ayurveda and yoga as perceived safer options.

14) Pur:
Poor socioeconomic status is a critical factor influencing cancer patients' choices in treatment. Many individuals in lower-income brackets turn to complementary and alternative medicine due to financial constraints and limited access to conventional healthcare services, revealing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

15) Education:
Educational levels among patients can profoundly impact their health perceptions and treatment choices. The study finds that lower education correlates with increased reliance on complementary and alternative medicine, underscoring the need for educational interventions to enhance awareness about reliable cancer treatments.

16) Attending:
The term attending refers to the act of patients seeking care in a healthcare setting. Understanding factors influencing individuals attending oncology clinics helps identify gaps in treatment access and the reliance on complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients.

17) Science (Scientific):
Scientific studies provide evidence-based insights into the efficacy and safety of treatments. The emphasis on scientific inquiry in exploring complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients is vital for integrating these approaches into mainstream medical practice.

18) Kumar:
Kumar is another common Indian surname often linked to researchers in the medical field. The inclusion of Kumar in the study reflects collaboration among various scholars focused on understanding cancer treatment and complementary therapies in the Indian healthcare landscape.

19) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, representing the traditional systems of medicine promoted by the Indian government. Its mention emphasizes the importance of integrating these systems with conventional treatments for holistic patient care in cancer treatment.

20) Northern India:
Northern India, characterized by diverse cultures and health practices, is the geographical focus of the study. Its unique blend of traditional medicine and contemporary healthcare offers insights into the utilization of complementary and alternative therapies among cancer patients in that region.

21) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is a conventional treatment for cancer that uses drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Patients often explore complementary and alternative medicine to mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy, highlighting the need for integrated care approaches.

22) Radiotherapy:
Radiotherapy employs high-energy radiation to treat cancer and is commonly associated with significant side effects. The relationship between radiotherapy and the exploration of complementary and alternative therapies, such as Ayurveda and yoga, showcases patients' desire to find supportive treatment methods.

23) Observation:
Observation is a fundamental aspect of research, particularly in understanding patient behavior regarding treatment choices. The study's observations regarding the demographics and motivations of cancer patients using CAM can help inform health policies and clinical practices.

24) Perception:
Perception influences how patients view complementary and alternative medicine. Understanding patients' perceptions highlights the need for education and awareness strategies that can impact their treatment choices and overall health outcomes.

25) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana is another common Indian surname, signifying the need to acknowledge various contributors to the study’s findings. It reflects the importance of collaborative research in unraveling the complex interplay between complementary therapies and conventional medical practices.

26) Sarnath:
Sarnath is often associated with the Indian tradition and culture. The mention of Sarnath reflects the historical context of Indian traditional healing practices, emphasizing the relevance of these practices in understanding patients' preferences in cancer treatment.

27) Siddha:
Siddha is a traditional system of medicine in India, primarily practiced in the southern region. Its inclusion highlights the diversity of healing practices available to cancer patients and points towards the broader exploration of various alternative treatment options alongside modern medicine.

28) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla is a prevalent surname in India, linked to various contributors in the medical and research community. Its appearance in the study signifies the contributions of numerous researchers aiming to understand the intersection of complementary medicine and cancer therapy in the region.

29) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is commonly found among researchers and healthcare professionals in India. The mention of Sharma indicates the collaborative efforts within the study to identify the patterns and perceptions of complementary and alternative medicine usage among cancer patients.

30) Glass:
The term glass can allude to transparency in research findings and knowledge dissemination in medicine. It emphasizes the necessity for clear communication regarding the benefits and challenges associated with complementary and alternative medicine choices among cancer patients.

31) Nayar:
Nayar is another common name, indicating collaborations of diverse researchers in understanding alternative treatment approaches. The mention of Nayar reflects the collective expertise in the study, contributing to insights regarding complementary therapies among cancer patients.

32) Rules:
Rules underpinning medical practice and treatment methodologies are essential for ensuring quality and safety. They help contextualize the research about complementary medicine and its integration into formal medical care for cancer patients.

33) Gana:
Gana may refer to a surname or concept connected to the heritage of collaboration within the study. Its mention acknowledges the diversity of contributors involved in addressing the complex issues surrounding complementary and alternative medicine in oncology.

34) Food:
Food plays a significant role in Ayurveda and alternative medicine practices. The study may touch upon dietary practices in cancer treatment, highlighting how nutrition complements alternative therapies and supports overall well-being among patients undergoing treatment.

35) Ter:
Ther can represent therapy in the context of the study. The exploration of different therapies, including complementary approaches, helps in understanding how supplementary practices contribute to the medical care of cancer patients in India.

36) Spiritual therapy:
Spiritual therapy refers to approaches that address the mental and emotional well-being of patients. Its inclusion in the study underlines the mental health benefits that patients may seek alongside physical treatments, reflecting the holistic nature of healthcare.

37) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders can complicate cancer treatment and influence patients' choice of complementary therapies. Understanding how cancer patients use alternative medicine to address mental health challenges emphasizes the need for integrated mental health support within oncology.

38) Peer review:
Peer review is a critical process in validating research findings. It ensures that the study's methodologies and conclusions are scrutinized and accepted within the scientific community, thereby lending credibility to its findings related to complementary and alternative medicine.

39) Discussion:
The discussion section of a study synthesizes findings, exploring their implications and context. It serves to highlight the significance of the research on complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients, providing insights for future studies and healthcare practices.

40) Developing:
Developing nations, like India, face unique challenges in healthcare access and treatment options. The study's focus on complementary and alternative medicine highlights how socio-economic factors impact cancer care in these regions, necessitating tailored healthcare solutions.

41) Depression:
Depression can significantly affect cancer patients' life quality. Understanding the prevalence of depression among patients seeking complementary medicine emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health within cancer treatment strategies and the potential role of alternative therapies.

42) Toxicity:
Toxicity associated with conventional cancer treatments can lead patients to seek alternatives. Examining how perceptions of toxicity influence treatment choices in complementary medicine reflects the importance of addressing patient concerns in cancer care.

43) Teaching:
Teaching is essential for educating patients about their treatment options. The study highlights the need for improved educational resources to inform cancer patients about the potential benefits and risks associated with complementary and alternative therapies.

44) Quality:
Quality of life is a primary concern for cancer patients. The study investigates how complementary and alternative medicine influences patients’ perceived quality of life, revealing the interplay between diverse treatment modalities and patient well-being.

45) Delhi:
Delhi, as a metropolitan hub, bridges traditional and modern healthcare systems. The reference to Delhi may signify the study's relevance in urban contexts where access to both conventional and complementary therapies presents unique challenges and opportunities for cancer patients.

46) Cina:
China's approaches to traditional medicine influence healthcare globally. Drawing parallels or contrasts with Chinese practices may provide insights into how similar models for complementary medicine can be applied to improve cancer treatment in India.

47) Seth:
Seth is a common surname and can denote an important contributor to the study. Its mention acknowledges the collaborative nature of the research, highlighting collective efforts in exploring alternative medicine among cancer patients.

48) Pain:
Pain management is a critical aspect of cancer care. The study examines how patients seek alternative therapies to alleviate pain, emphasizing the necessity for integrative approaches that address both the physical and emotional dimensions of cancer treatment.

49) Hand:
Hand often signifies touch or care in healthcare contexts. In the study, it highlights therapeutic practices like massage or other hands-on modalities within complementary and alternative medicine that patients may use for symptom relief.

50) Post:
Post may refer to outcomes following treatments or the dissemination of study findings. It emphasizes the need to evaluate the effectiveness and implications of complementary therapies for cancer care in posts-treatment scenarios.

51) Pir:
Peer collaboration among researchers enhances the credibility and depth of studies. The mention of peers highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in investigating complementary and alternative medicine usage among cancer patients.

52) Male:
Male patients may exhibit different patterns of using complementary and alternative medicine. Understanding gender-based disparities helps in developing targeted healthcare strategies that accommodate the diverse needs of all cancer patients.

53) Life:
Life signifies the overall well-being of cancer patients as they navigate treatment. The study's focus on how complementary and alternative medicine impacts patients' life underscores the significance of holistic approaches to health and healing in oncology.