Questions to Ask When Considering Complementary or Alternative Therapies

The use of complementary and alternative therapies (CAM) is on the rise. However, before using CAM, it is advisable to consult with your primary health care provider, or any specialized health care provider you are under the care of.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology has prepared Questions to Ask When Considering CAM.

The questions will help you gather the information you need about a CAM therapy.
Links are also provided to additional resources.

The Mulford Library of the University of Toledo has two relevant  online Library Guides

• Consumer Health includes the section Evaluating Health Information
• Drugs, Supplements, Herbs, and Vitamins includes the section Herbs and Botanicals (Consumers)

Related Articles

• Review highlights need for more education and guidance on CAM use in midwifery (esciencenews.com)
• Integrative oncology: Where “individualization” really means “making it up as you go along” (scienceblogs.com)
• Medical Schools Embrace Alternative Medicine (usnews.com)
• Consumer Health Toolkit (fremontlibraries.wordpress.com)
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine on the Rise (webmd.com)
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine – What People Aged 50 and over discuss with their healthcare providers (nccam.gov, 2011)