Individuals diagnosed with diabetes face a heightened risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to those without the condition. Research indicates that individuals with type 2 diabetes are 2 to 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with heart-related issues, while type 1 diabetes patients may face an even higher risk. But what exactly links diabetes to cardiovascular problems?
Impact of Diabetes on the Heart
Diabetes can have various adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, including:
High Blood Sugar Levels
Elevated blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycemia, can negatively affect the heart by triggering:
- Inflammation
- Oxidative stress, which damages cells, proteins, and DNA
- Dysfunction of the endothelial lining of blood vessels
This vascular damage from inflammation and oxidative stress can extend to the nerves that regulate the heart, leading to a condition called diabetic autonomic neuropathy. This disorder disrupts heart rate and blood pressure regulation, increasing the likelihood of severe cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
Moreover, endothelial dysfunction can hinder vasodilation and promote plaque accumulation, contributing to atherosclerosis (thickening of blood vessels) and significantly elevating the risk of heart disease. Atherosclerosis accounts for nearly 80% of all diabetes-related fatalities.
Diabetes also impacts the heart muscle, causing stiffness, fluid retention, and potentially heart failure. Female diabetics, particularly those experiencing hormonal changes or pregnancy complications, are at a heightened risk of developing high blood pressure, further elevating their cardiovascular vulnerability.
Nerve damage linked to diabetes can mask chest pain or discomfort, making it challenging to detect heart disease until it advances. Therefore, proactive measures to address cardiovascular issues early on are crucial.
Genetic Factors
The relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk is influenced by genetic components as well.
A comprehensive study by the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania analyzed DNA sequences from over 250,000 individuals of diverse backgrounds, uncovering 16 new genetic risk factors for diabetes and one for coronary heart disease (CHD).
Several genetic sequences indicating heightened diabetes risk also suggest an increased risk of CHD. Researchers identified eight specific gene variations affecting both conditions, associated with immunity, cell proliferation, and heart development.
These findings suggest that targeting common biological pathways could offer an effective approach to managing both diseases. In animal studies, researchers are exploring a specific gene called FABP4, identifying promising methods to address both diabetes and heart disease.
Interestingly, DNA variants linked to obesity or high blood pressure were found to significantly raise the risk of CHD compared to those affecting insulin or glucose levels.
It's essential to note that treatments for one condition may not necessarily reduce the risk of developing the other. Certain medications that lower the likelihood of one disease may inadvertently raise the risk of the other. Therefore, discussing treatment options with healthcare providers and opting for natural, holistic therapies when feasible are essential.
Lifestyle Choices
Diabetes often coexists with other conditions that exacerbate cardiovascular risks, such as obesity and high blood pressure. Many individuals further increase these risks by engaging in unhealthy lifestyle habits, including:
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor dietary choices
Each of these factors independently impacts heart health, but when paired with diabetes, the cumulative effect can be particularly severe.
Therefore, individuals engaging in any of the mentioned habits should consider making gradual changes. Research indicates that transitioning to healthier lifestyle practices can extend the lifespan of diabetes patients by three to ten years or more, while also enhancing their quality of life.
Inflammation, Diet, and Obesity
Inflammation plays a significant role in the cardiovascular disease risk faced by diabetics, and it can be managed through dietary adjustments and weight loss.
Chronic inflammation contributes to heart disease development and other diabetes-related complications. A study from Washington University School of Medicine revealed that immune cells called macrophages produce fatty acids that accumulate in arteries, leading to atherosclerosis and inflammation.
Studies have shown that mice unable to produce fat in their macrophages did not develop diabetes or inflammation, even when fed a high-fat diet. This suggests that inhibiting fat production in these cells could prevent inflammation in diabetic individuals.
Researchers are exploring drugs that modify cell lipid content to impact macrophage membranes and reduce diabetes complications. However, individuals can naturally reduce inflammation through healthy lifestyle choices.
Preventing Heart Disease in Diabetics
Implementing a few natural strategies can enhance heart health and support diabetes management. Here are some effective approaches:
Adopting Healthy Lifestyle Changes
- Follow an anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Opt for healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado while avoiding sugary, processed foods.
- Incorporate regular physical activity to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting a healthy weight. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly.
- Manage stress levels, as chronic stress can contribute to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can aid in relaxation, lowering blood pressure and glucose levels.
- Consider acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice that aims to balance energy flow in the body. Studies suggest it can enhance blood flow, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and stabilize blood glucose and heart rate.
- Explore the benefits of massage therapy, which can improve circulation, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and potentially regulate blood sugar levels, strengthening heart function.
- Utilize other mind-body tools like biofeedback to manage stress and support cardiovascular well-being. Biofeedback monitors functions such as heart rate, enabling individuals to consciously control stress and enhance heart health by regulating these involuntary functions.
Using Natural Supplements
Natural supplements have shown potential benefits for heart health in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Some beneficial supplements include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fish oil, omega-3s can reduce inflammation and enhance cardiovascular health.
- Magnesium: Present in leafy greens and whole grains, magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports heart health.
- Cinnamon and turmeric: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, these spices can improve insulin sensitivity and combat inflammation.
- Garlic: Given that 70% of U.S. adults with diabetes have high cholesterol levels, garlic supplements can aid in cholesterol management while reducing blood pressure and enhancing blood flow.
While there is a clear link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, individuals can proactively reduce their risk through natural means. By incorporating the aforementioned lifestyle tips and discussing any concerns with healthcare providers, individuals can take control of their health and enjoy a longer, more vibrant life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between holistic medicine and alternative medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Is holistic medicine considered safe?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects that are most common include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness as well as diarrhea, constipation and insomnia. These side effects can be difficult to understand and must be weighed against the benefits offered by alternative treatments such acupuncture.
There are no cases of death from holistic medicine.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
What does holistic really mean?
Holistic means whole-based. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. This is not always easy because we are used to seeing things as separate parts.
Most people think only in terms of white and black. There are many shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Take a look at it from every angle.
Take the time to look at it as a whole. Is there a way for its elements to interact?
If you find a problem in your situation, take the time to ask why. Make sure to take into account the impact of every change you make.
Why is holistic healing better?
Holistic health care focuses on treating the whole person rather than on individual symptoms. Holistic health care focuses on how people feel, how they eat, where they live and how stressed they are.
Holistic medicine is holistic and considers all aspects a patient's lives. It treats them all as one complete package. It may sound simple, but in practice, this approach is very difficult to achieve because most doctors focus solely on the physical side of patients.
What is a holistic medicine doctor?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. After treatment, the patient should feel better.
The doctor should not only focus on curing the disease but also help prevent future illnesses.
“Holistic” is a term that refers all aspects of a person’s life.
Who uses holistic medicine
Holistic medicine is health care that treats the whole person as opposed to treating specific symptoms. It addresses both the mental as well as physical aspects of well being.
Holistic medicine is acupuncture as well massage therapy, chiropractic, nutritional counseling, Yoga, and other complementary therapies.
The majority of holistic medicine patients have had their conditions addressed.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
webmd.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Hospital Anxiety and Depression in Female Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial – PubMed
liebertpub.com
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the 4 categories of complementary and alternative medicine?
The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine covers yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki, as well as chiropractic care, homeopathy (naturopathy), biofeedback, hypnosis and hypnosis. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative treatments include physical manipulations, including acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathic treatment. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.
CAM stands for a broad range of health practices that go beyond the Western medical system. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do neither.
In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. Mind-body medicine is comprised of relaxation techniques, mindfulness, guided imagery and self-hypnosis. There are also deep breathing exercises, meditations, progressive muscle relaxation, stress management, biofeedback and visualization. Natural products include nutritional supplements as well botanical medicines, homeopathic treatments, essential oils and herbal preparations. Manipulative therapies include manual, movement, traction, electrotherapies, cupping, stretching, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedics, and neurostimulation. There are spiritual healing modalities such as prayer and faith healing within energy healing.
Many CAM remedies treat symptoms, but don't address the cause. Some chronic diseases may be treated with CAM. If used properly, CAM can be combined with conventional treatments.
There are many reasons that people use CAM.
- To improve their overall health.
- To manage a particular condition.
- To reduce discomfort or pain
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief.
Some people use CAM to have more control over their own health than traditional medicine. Some may feel it has less side effects. Others opt for CAM to avoid prescription medication. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. Many people also seek out CAM because of bad experiences with traditional medicine.
Some people who use CAM feel that they need to be certain about their work before trying new things. Many CAM users ask questions about the safety and effectiveness of CAM. Others rely on friends and family for word of mouth.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM tend to be healthier and happier than those who don't. This is true regardless age, gender and race.
A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – NCCIH, approximately 40,000,000 visits were made to CAM providers alone in 2010.
The NCCIH estimates that 10 percent of the U.S. population uses chiropractors, massage therapists, acupuncturists, naturopaths, and/or osteopaths.3 By comparison, only 2 percent of the population uses medical doctors.
The American Medical Association has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, The American Medical Association recognized the need for physicians to “integrate scientifically supported complementary and alternate medicine into clinical practice…to satisfy patients' needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a groundbreaking report in 2007 entitled “Relaxing Contraints: Improving access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” It concluded that there is no credible evidence that any particular CAM intervention is effective in treating or preventing cancer.
Despite this conclusion, CAM continues to grow in popularity. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.
A recent study revealed that almost half of respondents use CAM as partof their primary healthcare regime.
CAM therapies may include natural products and mind-body practices as well as manipulative techniques, energy healing, modalities, exercise, and dietary supplements.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily for pain relief; however, many also offer other benefits, such as relaxation, improved mood, better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments draw on Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. These roots can be traced back thousands of decades.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.
TCM is an important component of modern health care.
TCM is used for treatment by more than 70% of Americans today.
Yoga is another popular CAM remedy. Yoga originated in India around 5000 B.C. It is now accepted all over the world.
Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can reduce stress, increase flexibility, and improve strength. It also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
Herbal medicine is one of the most popular types of CAM.
Herbal medicines may include herbs and spices, flowers, seeds or fruits, bark, leaves or roots, as well stems.
They are often considered safer options to pharmaceutical drugs, and they are widely used by customers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 45% of adult cancer patients used alternative medicine during their treatment.
The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.
According to a recent survey, 51% reported that they used at least one type (CAM) of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
Healthcare delivery suffers from a large gap because of the lack of communication between CAM users, conventional medical providers, and traditional medical providers.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: The Connection Between Diabetes and Heart Disease: Understanding the Risk Factors
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/diabetes/the-link-between-diabetes-and-cardiovascular-disease/
Published Date: Mon, 13 May 2024 20:10:12 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between holistic medicine and alternative medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Is holistic medicine considered safe?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects that are most common include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness as well as diarrhea, constipation and insomnia. These side effects can be difficult to understand and must be weighed against the benefits offered by alternative treatments such acupuncture.
There are no cases of death from holistic medicine.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan.
What does holistic really mean?
Holistic means whole-based. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. This is not always easy because we are used to seeing things as separate parts.
Most people think only in terms of white and black. There are many shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Take a look at it from every angle.
Take the time to look at it as a whole. Is there a way for its elements to interact?
If you find a problem in your situation, take the time to ask why. Make sure to take into account the impact of every change you make.
Why is holistic healing better?
Holistic health care focuses on treating the whole person rather than on individual symptoms. Holistic health care focuses on how people feel, how they eat, where they live and how stressed they are.
Holistic medicine is holistic and considers all aspects a patient's lives. It treats them all as one complete package. It may sound simple, but in practice, this approach is very difficult to achieve because most doctors focus solely on the physical side of patients.
What is a holistic medicine doctor?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. After treatment, the patient should feel better.
The doctor should not only focus on curing the disease but also help prevent future illnesses.
“Holistic” is a term that refers all aspects of a person’s life.
Who uses holistic medicine
Holistic medicine is health care that treats the whole person as opposed to treating specific symptoms. It addresses both the mental as well as physical aspects of well being.
Holistic medicine is acupuncture as well massage therapy, chiropractic, nutritional counseling, Yoga, and other complementary therapies.
The majority of holistic medicine patients have had their conditions addressed.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
webmd.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Hospital Anxiety and Depression in Female Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial – PubMed
liebertpub.com
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the 4 categories of complementary and alternative medicine?
The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine covers yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki, as well as chiropractic care, homeopathy (naturopathy), biofeedback, hypnosis and hypnosis. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative treatments include physical manipulations, including acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathic treatment. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.
CAM stands for a broad range of health practices that go beyond the Western medical system. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do neither.
In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. Mind-body medicine is comprised of relaxation techniques, mindfulness, guided imagery and self-hypnosis. There are also deep breathing exercises, meditations, progressive muscle relaxation, stress management, biofeedback and visualization. Natural products include nutritional supplements as well botanical medicines, homeopathic treatments, essential oils and herbal preparations. Manipulative therapies include manual, movement, traction, electrotherapies, cupping, stretching, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedics, and neurostimulation. There are spiritual healing modalities such as prayer and faith healing within energy healing.
Many CAM remedies treat symptoms, but don't address the cause. Some chronic diseases may be treated with CAM. If used properly, CAM can be combined with conventional treatments.
There are many reasons that people use CAM.
- To improve their overall health.
- To manage a particular condition.
- To reduce discomfort or pain
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief.
Some people use CAM to have more control over their own health than traditional medicine. Some may feel it has less side effects. Others opt for CAM to avoid prescription medication. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. Many people also seek out CAM because of bad experiences with traditional medicine.
Some people who use CAM feel that they need to be certain about their work before trying new things. Many CAM users ask questions about the safety and effectiveness of CAM. Others rely on friends and family for word of mouth.
Although CAM is sometimes viewed negatively in society, many users have positive feelings about it. People who use CAM tend to be healthier and happier than those who don't. This is true regardless age, gender and race.
A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – NCCIH, approximately 40,000,000 visits were made to CAM providers alone in 2010.
The NCCIH estimates that 10 percent of the U.S. population uses chiropractors, massage therapists, acupuncturists, naturopaths, and/or osteopaths.3 By comparison, only 2 percent of the population uses medical doctors.
The American Medical Association has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, The American Medical Association recognized the need for physicians to “integrate scientifically supported complementary and alternate medicine into clinical practice…to satisfy patients' needs and expectations.”5
The Institute of Medicine published a groundbreaking report in 2007 entitled “Relaxing Contraints: Improving access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” It concluded that there is no credible evidence that any particular CAM intervention is effective in treating or preventing cancer.
Despite this conclusion, CAM continues to grow in popularity. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.
A recent study revealed that almost half of respondents use CAM as partof their primary healthcare regime.
CAM therapies may include natural products and mind-body practices as well as manipulative techniques, energy healing, modalities, exercise, and dietary supplements.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily for pain relief; however, many also offer other benefits, such as relaxation, improved mood, better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments draw on Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. These roots can be traced back thousands of decades.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.
TCM is an important component of modern health care.
TCM is used for treatment by more than 70% of Americans today.
Yoga is another popular CAM remedy. Yoga originated in India around 5000 B.C. It is now accepted all over the world.
Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can reduce stress, increase flexibility, and improve strength. It also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
Herbal medicine is one of the most popular types of CAM.
Herbal medicines may include herbs and spices, flowers, seeds or fruits, bark, leaves or roots, as well stems.
They are often considered safer options to pharmaceutical drugs, and they are widely used by customers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 45% of adult cancer patients used alternative medicine during their treatment.
The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.
According to a recent survey, 51% reported that they used at least one type (CAM) of CAM.
Only 8% of these people discussed the use of this medication with their doctors.
Healthcare delivery suffers from a large gap because of the lack of communication between CAM users, conventional medical providers, and traditional medical providers.
