Putting Integrative Oncology Into Practice: Concepts and Approaches

Abstract

Unmet symptom needs and a desire for holistic health approaches or even cure are among the motivations patients have for seeking out complementary and alternative medicine. Using complementary and alternative medicine instead of conventional cancer treatment can have a negative impact on clinical outcomes and survival. Integrative oncology is a patient-centered, evidence-informed field of comprehensive cancer care that uses mind-body practices, natural products, and lifestyle modifications from different traditions alongside conventional cancer treatments. It prioritizes safety and best available evidence to offer appropriate therapeutic interventions along with conventional care. This review summarizes the underlying principles of integrative oncology and how it is distinct from alternative medicine, and it provides a practical guide for the effective application of evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine interventions in patient-centered care. In addition, we recommend resources for patients and clinicians and provide algorithms for appropriate integrative medicine referrals. Finally, we offer suggestions on developing and implementing an integrative oncology program and addressing current challenges in the field.

Fig 1.

Core components of integrative oncology for evidence-informed patient-centered care: (A) three main therapeutic categories, and (B) components of evidence-informed practice.

Fig 2.

Best approaches and reasons for integrative medicine referrals. CAM, complementary and alternative medicine; CBT-I, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia.