The Pink October is a global movement to raise awareness about breast cancer, highlighting the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatments. Beyond traditional approaches, integrative medicine offers a new dimension of care that puts the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
What is Integrative Oncology?
Integrative oncology combines conventional treatments with complementary therapies, allowing patients to actively participate in their health journey. From prevention to diagnosis, throughout treatment, and into recovery, this approach aims to reduce side effects and improve the quality of life.
In integrative oncology, the process begins with collaboration between the healthcare team and the patient. Together, they review symptoms, disease treatment, potential side effects, as well as the patient’s values and health goals. From there, a personalized care plan is developed, which may include the following evidence-based therapies:
Acupuncture for Nausea and Pain Relief
Acupuncture has proven effective in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, as well as reducing pain. During the session, small needles are inserted into specific points of the body, stimulating the energy flow and promoting symptom relief. Acupressure, a related technique, uses gentle pressure on areas such as the wrist, also helpful in controlling nausea.
Hyperthermia: Treatment with Heat
Hyperthermia is a technique that uses heat to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors, increasing the effectiveness of other treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. For hard-to-reach tumors or patients who cannot undergo surgery, hyperthermia can be a viable alternative. Whole-body hyperthermia, which simulates a controlled fever, can also be applied to stimulate the immune system.
The Importance of Nutrition
Proper nutrition during and after cancer treatment plays a crucial role in recovery and reducing the chances of cancer recurrence. Nutritional counseling helps set goals and provides guidance on a balanced diet, tailored to the patient’s needs, promoting faster and lasting recovery.
Safe Supplementation
While many supplements are recommended to cancer patients, it is essential to understand which ones truly work and are safe. Integrative oncology specialists can help assess the scientific evidence behind each supplement and ensure they do not interfere with conventional treatments.
Physical Exercise and Quality of Life
Exercise programs tailored to each patient’s abilities can reduce fatigue, preserve physical function, and relieve stress. Supervised exercise programs have shown significant improvement in the physical and mental health of patients, contributing to better quality of life during and after treatment.
Therapeutic Massage
Studies show that massage can reduce pain, fatigue, stress, and nausea, as well as promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension. By including massage in the integrative care plan, it is possible to reduce both physical and psychological symptoms, improving overall well-being.
Stress and Anxiety Management
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer are often accompanied by high levels of stress and anxiety. The integrative oncology team can suggest stress reduction techniques such as meditation and controlled breathing, helping to improve patients’ emotional health and reduce the negative effects of these feelings.
For more information about integrative oncology, visit www.oxyclinic.pt/especialidades/oncologia-medica-e-med-hiperbarica
