College of Nursing

In the presence of the Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Mosul, Assistant Professor Dr. Tahseen Mohsen Hussein, and the Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Nineveh, Professor Dr. Radwan Hussein Ibrahim, the master’s thesis defense of student Omnia Ahmed Misbah took place on Wednesday, June 26, 2025. The thesis is titled:
“The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Women with Breast Cancer: Trends, Motivations, and Outcomes.”

The study aimed to explore the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among women with breast cancer, to understand their motivations, attitudes toward such treatments, and to assess the outcomes of their use.

The results revealed that all participants had used some form of CAM within the past year. Herbal remedies and dietary supplements were the most commonly used. Motivations for use varied: 40% cited improving physical health, 19.3% aimed to reduce side effects of conventional treatment, and 30.7% believed in the therapeutic potential of CAM.

The study also found that most participants had a good level of knowledge about CAM, despite some misconceptions about its safety and interactions with conventional medicine. A large proportion expressed positive attitudes toward CAM; 65.3% reported improved energy levels, while 23.3% reported reduced pain. The study also noted weak correlations between participants’ knowledge and attitudes towards CAM and factors such as age and educational level.

The discussion committee was chaired by Assistant Professor Dr. Jinan Akbar Shakur from the College of Nursing / University of Kirkuk. Committee members included:
• Assistant Professor Yamama Zuhair Abdulkarim – College of Nursing / University of Mosul
• Lecturer Dr. Asmaa Abdulrazzaq Mohammed – College of Nursing / University of Mosul
• Professor Dr. Salwa Hazem Al-Mukhtar – College of Nursing / University of Mosul, who also served as the academic advisor and played an active role in supervising the thesis throughout its various stages.

The defense session witnessed a rich academic discussion and exchange of scientific ideas. The committee provided several constructive remarks that contributed to enhancing the quality and academic rigor of the thesis.

At the end of the session, the committee unanimously decided to award Omnia Ahmed Misbah a Master’s degree in Nursing Sciences, pending the completion of recommended revisions.

On this occasion, the Deanery of the College of Nursing extends its warmest congratulations to the student, wishing her continued success and excellence in her academic and research journey.