Therapeutic Pluralism: Exploring the Experiences of Cancer Patients and Professionals

Drawing on extensive fieldwork in the UK, this book includes over 120 interviews with patients and professionals, plus innovative ?diary? data which, for the first time, provides access to the experiences of CAM users. It gives a systematic analysis of issues such as: the development of patient preferences and influences on decision making expectations of CAM, and interpretations of 'success' the role of varying forms of evidence the role of social inequality and inter-professional conflicts in mediating and shaping patients? experiences of cancer and their use of CAMs concepts of science and rationality. Essential reading for students and researchers of medical sociology, complementary and alternative medicine and cancer, the book will also be of use to medical and health professionals, and policy-makers with an interest in complementary and alternative medicine.