title: Using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) methodology in CAM research with gynaecological cancer patients: A commentary on the perks and pitfalls.
abstract: This paper provides a commentary on several challenges faced by researchers when conducting randomised controlled trials (RCTs) utilising complementary therapies with cancer patients. Several factors, such as research design and recruitment to the intervention are discussed. Examples are drawn from an RCT conducted by the lead author regarding the use of yoga to improve the quality of life of gynaecological cancer patients undergoing treatment for their cancer. This paper gives methodological insights into some of the difficulties experienced when conducting research with cancer patients, and provides a number of recommendations based on the available evidence and practical application of these methods.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Patient Safety and Service Quality, Imperial College London Medical School Building, Room 5.03, St Mary's Campus, Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PG, UK.
authors.forename: Stephanie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Archer
authors.affiliation: Liverpool John Moores University, Natural Sciences and Psychology, Tom Reilly Building, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK.
authors.forename: Mark J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Forshaw
mesh_terms: D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005833:Genital Neoplasms, Female / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards
keywords: Complementary therapy; Gynaecological cancer; Methods; Randomised controlled trial; Yoga