Even in instances where patients attempted to initiate discussion, their efforts were often not reciprocated, and unresponsiveness was taken as a sign that the physician did not want to hear more about the patient's practices, said Adler. The second most cited reason for lack of disclosure was an anticipation of a negative physician response. The study also dispelled two stereotypes surrounding alternative medicine. The study also found that women between 35 and 49 consistently used alternative therapies more often than women between 60 and 74, both before and after their diagnosis. It is critical not to make judgments about who uses alternative therapies on the basis of assumptions regarding age, socioeconomic status, or ethnicity.
All patients have the potential to be interested in or to use a variety of alternative treatments.
The symposium on women's self care will also include research on self care actions of Myanmar domestic workers in Thailand, health beliefs and self care in Appalachian women, and the influence of perceived workplace support in a woman's ability to resume employment following breast cancer surgery. Shelley Adler will be available for interviews during the 11th International Congress on Women's Health Issues. Copyright 1999 Regents of the University of California. All Rights Reserved. Last updated .