Cohort Study of Ginseng, Soy and Other Complementary Medicine Use and Breast Cancer Survival

摘要

Although experimental data suggest that ginseng has immunostimulating and cancer inhibitory properties, its effect and safety have not been adequately evaluated among breast cancer survivors. Soy has also been shown in laboratory studies to have anti-estrogenic and anti-cancer effects but epidemiologic data on soy and breast cancer recurrence is sparse. Limited data are available on the effectiveness and safety of other botanic and 'natural' remedies that are marketed as anti-cancer agents. Potential beneficial or harmful pharmacological interactions of ginseng, soy, and other complementary medicines with conventional cancer therapies have not been well studied. Funded by the DOD, we are conducting a large cohort study in Shanghai, China, to test the following hypotheses: (1) Ginseng use and high soy intake reduce breast cancer recurrence and improve overall survival; (2) Ginseng use increases quality of life among breast cancer survivors. We will also evaluate the potential effect of Chinese traditional medicine and other herbal or 'natural' remedies on survival, recurrence, and quality of life. Interactions with conventional cancer therapies will be examined. The study is progressing as planed. To date, l98l breast cancer survivors have been recruited with an overall participation rate of 80%. The 18-month follow-up survey has been completed for 634 cases. No adverse events have been reported during the study period.