The potential effects of traditional Chinese medicine on the outcomes after breast cancer surgery: a large population-based study

Detailed evidence concerning the impact of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on clinical outcomes for breast cancer patients in Taiwan is not yet fully available. Our research sought to examine the association between TCM integration and postoperative outcomes among women undergoing mastectomies. Utilizing a large insurance database, we identified a cohort of adult women who underwent breast cancer surgery during the 2010–2019 period. We compared sociodemographic profiles and comorbidities between TCM users and non-users. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for both mortality and postoperative complications. Among 91,298 eligible patients, the one-year preoperative prevalence of TCM utilization was 39.8%. Compared to the control group, TCM users demonstrated a significantly lower likelihood of postoperative stroke (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.62–0.93) and a reduced requirement for intensive care (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59–0.91). Notably, a cumulative exposure of more than four TCM consultations within the year preceding surgery was specifically linked to a decreased risk of stroke (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.61–0.95). TCM utilization is prevalent among the Taiwanese breast cancer population prior to surgery. Our findings suggest that preoperative TCM use is correlated with improved post-mastectomy outcomes, particularly regarding stroke prevention and reduced intensive care needs. Nevertheless, these observational benefits warrant further confirmation through prospective and large-scale clinical investigations.