Integrative medicine and the oncology patient: options and benefits

Autor: Maureen M. Anderson, Gail Elliott Patricolo, T. Lanni, Karen Armstrong
Rok vydání: 2018
Předmět:
Zdroj: Supportive Care in Cancer. 26:2267-2273
ISSN: 1433-7339
0941-4355
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-4007-y
Popis: Cancer is a major public health problem, and cancer patients and survivors face many physical and emotional challenges after the initial diagnosis, through treatment, and in the post-treatment period. Different integrative medicine (IM) modalities can be used to mitigate some of the physical issues that originate from the cancer itself or the treatment and to promote well-being and emotional health. Here, we discuss how an IM Department can function in a hospital system, particularly with regard to oncology patients, the modalities appropriate for oncology patients, how these modalities can benefit this patient population, and the role of IM in cancer survivorship. A dedicated IM Department that works with oncologists provides support and care for the whole person. These different modalities work together to reduce pain, anxiety, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and peripheral neuropathy, while promoting immune function and improving sleep, range of motion, and an overall sense of well-being. However, each modality has different contraindications for the oncology patient, and proper training is required for safe and effective care. We illustrate how IM can be a valuable component of the care of the oncology patient.
Databáze: OpenAIRE
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