The increase in
cancer incidence and mortality is challenging current
cancer care delivery globally, disproportionally affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) when it comes to receiving evidence-based
cancer prevention, treatment, and palliative and survivorship care. Patients in LMICs often rely on traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) that is more familiar, less costly, and widely available. However, spheres of influence and tensions between conventional medicine and TCIM can further disrupt efforts in evidence-based
cancer care.
Integrative oncology provides a framework to research and integrate safe, effective TCIM alongside conventional
cancer treatment and can help bridge health care gaps in delivering evidence-informed, patient-centered care. This growing field uses lifestyle modifications, mind and body
therapies (eg, acupuncture,
massage,
meditation, and yoga), and natural products to improve symptom management and quality of life among patients with
cancer. On the basis of this review of the global challenges of
cancer control and the current status of
integrative oncology, the authors recommend: 1) educating and integrating TCIM providers into the
cancer control workforce to promote risk reduction and culturally salient healthy life styles; 2) developing and testing TCIM interventions to address
cancer symptoms or treatment-related adverse effects (eg,
pain,
insomnia,
fatigue); and 3) disseminating and implementing evidence-based TCIM interventions as part of comprehensive palliative and survivorship care so patients from all cultures can live with or beyond
cancer with respect, dignity, and vitality. With conventional medicine and TCIM united under a cohesive framework,
integrative oncology may provide citizens of the world with access to safe, effective, evidence-informed, and culturally sensitive
cancer care.