A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study of the Status of Patient-Oriented Chinese Medicine Treatment of Malignant Tumors

Objective: To clarify the current status of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) application and research in the field of tumor treatment, and provide reference guidance for the rational application of TCM in the treatment of tumors, multidisciplinary cooperation in tumor treatment, and improvement of TCM education. Methods: From July 2015 to June 2016, the patients in oncology department of four large-scale comprehensive first-class hospitals in China were selected. The general clinical data, clinical application of TCM and cognitive status data of tumor patients were obtained by using electronic medical record database combined with questionnaire to explore the clinical application of TCM in tumor treatment from the perspective of tumor patients. Results: The proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy (including targeted therapy) and TCM treatment was 28.7%. 16.6% of doctors were concerned that TCM combined with chemotherapy might produce adverse reactions. 20.0% of doctors think they have enough knowledge to answer questions related to TCM. 22.0% of doctors have received continuing education in TCM. During the treatment, 36.5% of patients had discussed TCM with their doctors. A total of 44.9% of doctors believe that TCM treatment is effective. Conclusion: The purpose of applying TCM is mainly to regulate the body’s immunity, improve the symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue and sleep disorder, increase the effect and reduce toxicity of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The treatment is mainly based on TCM compounds and proprietary Chinese medicines.