Cancer patients are being encouraged to consult their doctors before turning to herbal or alternative remedies, as unmonitored treatment choices may interfere with recommended medical care.

The appeal comes from the Regional Priority Non-Communicable Diseases and Family Health Coordinator at the Western Regional Health Authority, Dr. Marcia Johnson-Campbell.

She was speaking in a recent Jamaica Information Service interview.

Dr. Johnson-Campbell said decisions on alternative approaches to cancer treatment should be discussed with medical professionals.

She also noted that complementary approaches should be carefully coordinated with conventional treatment.

Dr. Johnson-Campbell pointed out that many patients seek alternative therapies out of fear, cultural beliefs, or a desire to explore every possible option following a diagnosis.

She said that these concerns are understandable, but emphasised the need for guidance from qualified healthcare providers to ensure that these approaches do not interfere with prescribed treatment or delay critical care.