Common misunderstandings about complementary therapies for patients with cancer.

Common misunderstandings exist surrounding the use of complementary therapies for patients with cancer. These problems and misunderstandings may prevent some patients from receiving these potentially beneficial treatments which may enhance quality of life, offer symptomatic relief and self help. Many of these misunderstandings are based on heresay and lack of awareness concerning the role that these therapies may play in complementary cancer care. It is the aim of this article to help dispel these misunderstandings and to provide a greater degree of clarity in this area. In this way, patients may be able to receive the full benefit of a range of complementary therapies in cancer care.