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Complementary medicine includes a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies. Although there are few studies on the use of complementary therapies for cancer, it is known that many people use complementary therapies without discussing it with their physician. This can cause additional side effects or complications.
What are complementary therapies?
Complementary refers to supportive methods that are used in addition to conventional medicine (those that are widely accepted and practiced by the mainstream medical community). Complementary methods do not cure disease, but they may help control symptoms and improve well-being.
How are complementary therapies used for cancer treatment?
Many patients use complementary therapies to help alleviate cancer-related pain and medication side effects. Common therapies include:
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Acupuncture to ease chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting and to control pain associated with surgery.
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Vitamins or herbal supplements to assist healing and improve immune function.
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Tai chi to improve energy and reduce stress.
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Meditation, relaxation and imaging techniques to reduce stress and fatigue.
Are complementary therapies safe?
Conventional approaches to cancer treatment have been studied for safety and effectiveness through a rigorous scientific process, including clinical trials with large numbers of patients. Often, less is known about the safety and effectiveness of complementary methods, especially herbal preparations and vitamins, because they have not undergone a similar rigorous evaluation. However, more studies are now being conducted to test the effectiveness and safety of some commonly used preparations. For example, some studies indicate that large doses of antioxidant vitamins may interfere with cancer treatment by preventing the death of cancer cells. Other studies show that meditation, relaxation, and imaging therapies, previously used in treating cardiac disease, can be used safely by cancer patients.
What should I know about complementary therapies?
Cancer patients considering using complementary therapies should discuss this decision with their doctor or nurse, as they would any therapeutic approach, because some complementary therapies may interfere with their standard treatment or may be harmful when used with conventional treatment.
Questions to ask your health care provider about complementary therapies include:
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What benefits can be expected from this therapy?
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What are the risks associated with this therapy?
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Do the known benefits outweigh the risks?
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What side effects can be expected?
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Will the therapy interfere with conventional treatment?
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Will the therapy be covered by health insurance?
How do I learn more?
Communication with your physician is extremely important. He or she can answer any questions you might have about using complementary therapies for cancer treatment. In addition, the University of Minnesota Cancer Center has information on its web site at www.cancer.umn.edu, or you can call the toll-free number, 1-888 CANCER MN.
This column is an educational service and advice presented should not take the place of an examination by a health-care professional.
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