Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Radiotherapy: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Integrative oncology and radiology
• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) applications

Background:

• CAM approaches are widely adopted by patients across various medical fields and diseases, often self-administered without medical supervision.
• CAM use is well-documented in cancer and chronic illness management, with usage rates in radiation therapy patients ranging from 26% to 97%.
• Limited data exists on CAM utilization within diagnostic radiology and medical imaging fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the principles and applications of CAM in radiation oncology.
• To explore the parallels between radiation oncology and radiology concerning CAM use.
• To highlight the need for further investigation into CAM in imaging procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of fundamental principles and existing experiences with CAM in radiation oncology.
• Comparison of radiation oncology practices with radiology, focusing on imaging prevalence and patient cooperation.
• Analysis of CAM definitions, including mind-body practices and natural products.

Main Results:

• CAM, encompassing mind-body practices (e.g., meditation, acupuncture) and natural products (e.g., herbs, vitamins), is frequently used to manage therapy side effects and enhance well-being.
• Mindfulness and meditation within CAM are recognized for reducing anxiety and improving physical/emotional health in patients with chronic conditions.
• Patients undergoing repetitive or invasive imaging for cancer or chronic disease monitoring (e.g., MRI for multiple sclerosis) may benefit from CAM interventions.

Conclusions:

• Significant parallels exist between radiation oncology and radiology, suggesting potential for similar CAM usage patterns.
• The understudied area of CAM in diagnostic imaging warrants further research.
• Developing refined recommendations and guidelines for CAM use in radiation oncology and radiology is essential.