All About Integrative Oncology

At its core, this specialized field of integrative medicine delves into the realm of nonpharmacologic therapies to address symptoms, both physical and emotional, associated with cancer. These therapies, often referred to as “complementary,” are grounded in evidence-based practices, acting as adjuncts to mainstream cancer care. Their primary goal is to not only manage symptoms effectively but also to bolster patients’ emotional resilience and physical strength, equipping them with invaluable skills to navigate their journey through and beyond conventional cancer treatments.

What  is Integrative Oncology

Integrative oncology, the diagnosis-specific field of integrative medicine, addresses symptom control with nonpharmacologic therapies. Known commonly as “complementary therapies” these are evidence-based adjuncts to mainstream care that effectively control physical and emotional symptoms, enhance physical and emotional strength, and provide patients with skills enabling them to help themselves throughout and following mainstream cancer treatment.

Integrative oncology focuses on building a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to cancer care that brings together both standard cancer treatments and integrative therapies to improve clinical outcomes for patients. Common integrative therapies include mind-body methods (meditation, yoga, music therapy, spirituality, and art therapy), herbs and supplements, and other therapies such as massage therapy and acupuncture.