A major new study reveals that breast cancer patients who forgo traditional treatments in favor of complementary and alternative medicine face a significantly higher risk of death. The research, analyzing data from over two million patients, also found that even combining alternative therapies with standard care was associated with worse survival outcomes.
Researchers analyzed records from the National Cancer Database, which captures approximately 70% of new U.S. cancer diagnoses. They compared outcomes for patients who received exclusively traditional therapies—such as surgery, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, or radiation—with those who used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), either alone or in combination. The vast majority, 98%, received traditional treatments. For the small group that chose CAM alone, the results were stark: they experienced a 3.7-fold higher mortality rate, making them nearly four times more likely to die within five years compared to those using only evidence-based treatments.
Perhaps more surprisingly, patients who combined CAM with traditional treatments also fared worse. This group had a 1.4 times higher mortality, equating to a 40% higher chance of dying within five years, than those using traditional therapies exclusively. Senior author Dr. Daniel Boffa noted the team was surprised by this finding, as some evidence suggests CAM can help manage treatment side effects. Further analysis suggested a reason: "It seemed from the data that the patients who used CAM in combination were skipping some of the traditional treatments, particularly radiation and endocrine therapies, which likely contributed to the lower survival," Boffa explained.
The study underscores a critical communication gap, as many patients may not disclose their use of alternative therapies to their oncology teams. This lack of discussion can prevent doctors from addressing potential risks and ensuring patients complete full courses of proven treatments. The researchers emphasize that open dialogue is essential for optimal care. "The best way to give patients the best care is to discuss the full range of factors influencing their treatment decisions, including their interest in alternative treatment," Boffa concluded. The findings highlight the life-saving importance of established cancer therapies while calling for more integrated and transparent conversations between patients and their care providers.