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Integrative Medicine for Breast Cancer Survivors
1FISO Professor Deputy Director and Director of Research Cherng Family Center for Integrative Oncology Departments of Supportive Care Medicine and Medical Oncology City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center Duarte, CA, USA.
Seminars in Radiation Oncology
|June 13, 2026
Summary
Breast cancer survivors can manage treatment side effects with integrative medicine. Evidence supports mind-body practices, acupuncture, massage, and diet for symptom relief beyond cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Integrative Medicine
- Cancer Survivorship
Background:
- Breast cancer is a leading global diagnosis.
- Cancer therapies frequently induce persistent physical and psychological symptoms.
- Managing these long-term symptoms is crucial for survivors' quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on integrative medicine for managing common breast cancer survivor symptoms.
- To identify interventions with the strongest supporting evidence for symptom management.
- To provide a framework for clinicians to select appropriate integrative approaches.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of current evidence on integrative medicine for breast cancer survivors.
- Focus on symptom management including diet, exercise, mind-body approaches, acupuncture, massage, and supplements.
- Categorization of interventions based on symptom relief and evidence strength.
Main Results:
- Mind-body interventions (mindfulness, yoga, hypnosis) show promise for symptom management.
- Acupuncture and massage therapy are supported by evidence for specific symptoms.
- Certain dietary supplements may aid in symptom relief for breast cancer survivors.
Conclusions:
- Integrative medicine offers viable options for managing persistent symptoms in breast cancer survivors.
- Clinicians can utilize this evidence-based framework to guide patient care.
- Further research can refine the application of integrative therapies in oncology survivorship.
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