by Jack Bleeker
The 21st Century has brought with it tremendous strides
in cancer survival and the efficacy of therapies. Among
the more important aspects of this progress is the implementation
of integrative oncology as an effective model for cancer
treatment. Integrative oncology emphasizes not only
the use of traditional cancer treatments, such as surgery,
chemotherapy, and surgery, but also complementary, non-curative
therapies designed to ease the process of cancer treatment
for the patient. These therapies can range from acupuncture
to meditation, but have proven more often than not to
be effective in assisting patients through the discomforts
commonly associated with traditional cancer treatment.
One therapy being incorporated into cancer care in recent
years is Yoga.
The primary goals of integrative oncology are to achieve
effective cancer treatment while maintaining patient
comfort and relief of stress. Just as Yoga has been
used for hundreds of years as an effective stress release
mechanism for many people, so too is it now being utilized
by cancer patients.
While further research is ongoing, preliminary studies
examining the effects of Yoga among cancer patients
and survivors support the efficacy of Yoga within cancer
treatment regimens, including the combating of symptoms
caused by chemotherapy drugs. Yoga has shown to dramatically
reduce sleeplessness, cancer-related distress, nausea,
and excessive fatigue.
Some aggressive cancers are difficult to treat with
curative therapies. Many patients of malignancies such
as peritoneal mesothelioma, choose to incorporate alternative
therapies such as Yoga, not to supplant traditional
therapies, but to improve quality of life and reduce
anxiety associated with terminal disease. Therapies
which can reduce stress levels and alleviate symptoms
associated with aggressive chemotherapy cocktails and
radiation treatments can be extremely beneficial not
only to patients but also to family members and loved
ones of patients.
This is not to say however, that Yoga and other alternative
therapies are appropriate for all patients. Patients
suffering with mesothelioma, should speak with their
oncologist and other doctors to ensure that they are
in good enough health to pursue any therapy which could
induce mild stress on the body. However, support for
Yoga and other well-being-based therapies is growing
among the oncology establishment and many cancer centers
are introducing sessions designed for patients and family
members. If the ultimate goals of complementary cancer
care are to introduce therapies which improve comfort
levels and reduce stress experienced by patients and
loved ones, Yoga will be at the forefront of integrative
oncology now and in the future.
Reference
Bower, Julienne E., Woolery, Alison, Sternlieb, Beth,
and Garet, Deborah. “Yoga for Cancer Patients
and Survivors.” Cancer Control 12 (2005): 165-71
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