Use of black vulture (Coragyps atratus) in complementary and alternative therapies for cancer in Colombia: a qualitative study.
BACKGROUND
Although Coragyps atratus has been used as a traditional therapy for patients with cancer, the scientific literature does not contain enough information on how this therapy is used or the mechanisms that explain this therapeutic practice.


OBJECTIVE
To understand the methods of use and the reasons given by patients and caregivers for the use of Coragyps atratus in cancer treatment.


METHODS
This study used a qualitative design based on twenty in-depth interviews of patients with cancer or caregivers of patients with the disease. The analysis of the text was based on an inductive thematic approach.


RESULTS
Resistance to disease and immune enhancement are properties attributed to Coragyps atratus when used for cancer treatment. The most recommended method of use is fresh blood ingestion, and the associated mechanism of action is transfer of immune factors to the individual who consumes it.


CONCLUSIONS
Use of Coragyps atratus as a treatment for cancer is a popular alternative therapy in Colombia. More studies are needed to understand the clinical effects of this intervention in cancer patients.
Department of Medicine, National University of Colombia, Bogotá, DC, Colombia. rsanchezpe@unal.edu.co
Ricardo
R
Sánchez-Pedraza
Magda R
MR
Gamba-Rincón
Andrés L
AL
González-Rangel
D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds; D001769:Blood / Q000276:immunology; D002648:Child; D003105:Colombia; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D060467:Disease Resistance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D036301:Qualitative Research
D007155:Immunologic Factors