Intentions, effects, and challenges associated with the use of traditional Chinese medicine for breast cancer: a qualitative study from TCM physicians

Patients with cancer may use complementary and alternative medicine alongside conventional treatment to relieve their symptoms and improve disease control. Among all cancer patients in Taiwan, patients with breast cancer (BCPs) are the most frequent users of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). BCPs often use TCM and Western medicine (WM) simultaneously. In this study, we explored the intentions, effects, and challenges associated with TCM use by BCPs from the perspective of TCM physicians. In this qualitative study, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect comprehensive data. After purposive sampling was used to recruit experienced attending TCM physicians, a snowball sampling technique was applied. Data collection was discontinued once saturation was reached. Interview recordings were transcribed verbatim, and content analysis was conducted to identify relevant factors and determine the frequencies. Seven TCM physicians with up to 25 years of clinical experience participated in this study. They indicated that BCPs are often distressed after receiving their diagnoses. The physicians further mentioned that the primary reasons BCPs seek TCM care are hoping to relieve the side effects of conventional treatments, their wish to prevent tumor recurrence, and the recommendations they receive from WM physicians or family and friends. Based on their clinical observations, the participants highlighted that TCM can mitigate the side effects of breast cancer treatment, enhance patients’ body constitution to control tumors, and improve their overall mental well-being and quality of life. Regarding the challenges of TCM in breast cancer care, the physicians underscored the need for integrating TCM with WM, alongside reforms in health policy, health insurance, and medication restrictions. This study presents the perspectives of TCM physicians regarding the role of TCM in breast cancer care. It highlights key challenges in combining TCM with WM as well as in treatment-related policies and medication restrictions. Overall, the findings can guide health policymakers seeking to enhance TCM care for BCPs, aiming to improve their health outcomes and quality of care.