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Complementary therapies for cancer-related symptoms
Gary Deng1, Barrie R Cassileth, K Simon Yeung
1Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Box 303, New York, New York 10021, USA. dengg@mskcc.org
The Journal of Supportive Oncology
|November 5, 2004
Summary
Complementary therapies like acupuncture and massage can alleviate cancer symptoms and side effects. However, caution is advised with botanicals and dietary supplements due to potential interactions with conventional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Supportive and Palliative Care
- Integrative Oncology
Background:
- Cancer-related symptoms significantly impact patient quality of life.
- Conventional treatments may offer insufficient relief or cause adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of complementary therapies in managing cancer symptoms.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of various complementary approaches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of controlled clinical trials and pilot studies.
- Analysis of evidence for acupuncture, hypnotherapy, mind-body techniques, and massage therapy.
- Evaluation of data on botanicals and dietary supplements.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture and hypnotherapy demonstrate efficacy in reducing pain and nausea.
- Mind-body techniques (meditation, relaxation, music therapy) and massage therapy help mitigate anxiety and distress.
- Pilot studies suggest potential benefits for xerostomia, hot flashes, and fatigue.
Conclusions:
- Complementary therapies offer valuable options for symptom management in cancer care.
- Botanicals and dietary supplements require careful consideration due to potential interactions and should generally be discouraged alongside conventional treatment.