Why we need alternative cancer research?
First things first, let us define what is cancer and what is alternative cancer research?
Cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute in America, is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells. Normally, human cells grow and multiply (through a process called cell division) to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or become damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.
Alternative cancer research encompasses investigations into treatments, therapies, and approaches that fall outside of mainstream conventional medicine.
Why do we need this different kind of research?
Many people choose complementary therapies or traditional healing alongside conventional treatments to help manage cancer symptoms and the side-effects of treatment.
Alternative cancer research includes:
Herbal and Nutritional Therapies: Researching the potential benefits of herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements in treating or preventing cancer.
Mind-Body Interventions: Studying techniques such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and biofeedback to see if they can help manage cancer symptoms or improve quality of life.
Energy Therapies: Exploring practices like Reiki, therapeutic touch, and electromagnetic field therapies for their potential effects on cancer treatment outcomes.
Alternative Medical Systems: Investigating traditional healing systems like traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, or homeopathy for their roles in cancer care.
Exercise and Movement Therapies: Researching the impact of physical activities such as exercise, tai chi, or qigong on cancer treatment side effects and overall well-being.
Alternative Cancer Diets: Studying specific diets (e.g., ketogenic diet, macrobiotic diet) and their potential influence on cancer progression and treatment outcomes.
Psychological and Spiritual Approaches: Exploring the effects of psychotherapy, support groups, and spiritual practices on emotional well-being and resilience during cancer treatment.
It’s important to note that while alternative cancer research explores these areas, many approaches have not been thoroughly scientifically validated through rigorous clinical trials. Therefore, they are often considered complementary to, rather than replacements for, conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Integrative oncology seeks to combine evidence-based conventional treatments with select alternative approaches to provide comprehensive care.
Alternative cancer research is pursued for several important reasons:
- Exploring New Therapeutic Avenues: Conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy have advanced significantly, but they may not be effective for all types of cancer or all individuals. Alternative research explores new treatment modalities that could potentially complement or enhance existing therapies.
- Addressing Treatment Side Effects: Conventional treatments often come with significant side effects that can impact a patient’s quality of life. Alternative approaches, such as nutritional therapies, mind-body interventions, and acupuncture, may help alleviate these side effects or improve overall well-being during treatment.
- Personalized Medicine: Cancer is a complex disease with many factors influencing its development and progression. Alternative research often focuses on personalized approaches that take into account an individual’s genetics, lifestyle, and preferences. This can lead to more tailored and effective treatments.
- Patient-Centered Care: Many patients seek alternative therapies because they desire a more holistic approach to their care, focusing not only on the physical aspects of cancer but also on emotional, spiritual, and psychological well-being. Alternative research responds to these patient needs and preferences.
- Finding Less Invasive Approaches: Some alternative therapies, such as certain dietary modifications or integrative approaches like acupuncture, aim to provide treatments that are less invasive compared to surgery or chemotherapy, which may be preferable for some patients.
- Exploring Traditional Knowledge: Many alternative therapies are rooted in traditional medical systems that have been used for centuries. Researching these approaches may uncover valuable insights and potential treatments that could benefit modern cancer care.
- Filling Research Gaps: There are still many unanswered questions in cancer research, and alternative approaches may offer insights into mechanisms of action, potential synergies with conventional treatments, or novel therapeutic targets.
However, it’s important to approach alternative cancer research with caution. Rigorous scientific evidence through well-designed clinical trials is essential to establish safety, efficacy, and appropriate use of any alternative therapy. Integrative oncology, which combines evidence-based conventional treatments with select alternative approaches, is an increasingly recognized approach to providing comprehensive cancer care that meets patient needs while ensuring safety and effectiveness.