Introduction
As we celebrate 30 years of progress in integrative oncology, we stand at a crossroads where the past meets the future. The field has evolved significantly, driven by innovative research and a commitment to holistic patient care. This blog explores the key advancements and challenges in integrative oncology, drawing insights from the research article "Integrative Oncology’s 30-Year Anniversary: What Have We Achieved? A North American Naturopathic Oncology Perspective."
Key Advancements in Integrative Oncology
- IV High Dose Ascorbate: Research supports its use alongside chemotherapy, enhancing patient outcomes.
- Hyperthermia Treatments: These are gaining traction in treating solid tumors, including brain tumors.
- PDL-1 Inhibitor Immunotherapies: These therapies show promising results in specific cancer patient subgroups.
- Tumor DNA Sequencing: Personalized precision treatments are now possible, thanks to advancements in DNA sequencing.
- Understanding Glucose Metabolism: Improved therapies like intermittent fasting and metformin are now available.
- Role of Medical Cannabis: Its applications in treating chemotherapy side effects and potential anti-proliferative effects are expanding.
- Psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology (PNEI): This field is broadening our understanding of cancer's psychosocial and immunological aspects.
- Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy: This therapy is gaining recognition for addressing psychological distress in cancer patients.
- Spiritual Health: It is increasingly being addressed, with new tools for measurement and integration into patient care.
- Mind-Body Therapies: These therapies are now part of many cancer care programs, reducing distress and improving quality of life.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite these advancements, integrative oncology faces challenges, particularly in research funding and access to therapies. The field must continue to advocate for comprehensive studies and integration into mainstream medical practices. Additionally, there is a need for more standardized dosing guidelines, especially for emerging therapies like medical cannabis and psychedelics.
Encouraging Further Research
Practitioners are encouraged to delve deeper into these areas, exploring new research opportunities and contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting integrative oncology. By doing so, they can help shape a future where holistic, patient-centered care is the norm.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Integrative Oncology’s 30-Year Anniversary: What Have We Achieved? A North American Naturopathic Oncology Perspective.
