Turmeric supplementation improves the quality of life and hematological parameters in breast cancer patients on paclitaxel chemotherapy: A case series

Background: and purpose: Phytochemicals are proven to be effective in targeting numerous signaling pathways in cancer. Utilizing plant-based support in combination with currently approved chemotherapeutic strategies might prove a feasible method to improve therapeutic outcomes in cancer patients. The present study aimed to estimate the effect of turmeric supplementation on quality of life (QoL) and hematological parameters in breast cancer patients on Paclitaxel chemotherapy.

Materials and methods: The present study is a prospective consecutive case series with 60 participants. QoL was assessed using a standard questionnaire and hematological parameters were recorded from the patients' hospital records.

Results: Turmeric supplementation for 21 days resulted in clinically relevant and statistically significant improvement in global health status, symptom scores (fatigue, nausea, vomiting, pain, appetite loss, insomnia), and hematological parameters.

Conclusion: The study findings show that turmeric supplementation improved QoL, brought about symptom palliation and increased hematological parameters in breast cancer patients.

Keywords: Curcuma longa; Curcumin; Hemoglobin; Herb-drug interactions; Myelosuppression; Symptoms.