Complementary therapies for cancer patients: what works, what doesn't, and how to know the difference

Cancer patients, with their multiple symptoms and layers of suffering, are presenting many challenges to the treating physician and are turning to complementary mind-body therapies in increasing numbers. The utilization of mind-body medicine and other complementary therapies is growing at rates faster than Western medicine, and physicians are more commonly being questioned about potential benefits and risks of these therapies. This article discusses hypnosis and mind-body approaches in the care of the cancer patient, and offers suggestions regarding the evaluation of complementary medicine therapies.