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The Sydney Cancer Centre supports therapies that have been proven to be safe and effective in scientific studies. There is currently wide interest in complementary and alternative cancer therapies, and this is not surprising since conventional treatments are sometimes seen as being complicated, painful or even having significant side effects. Furthermore cure can often not be guaranteed. Here at the Sydney Cancer Centre we offer evidence-based integrated cancer care, that is we use treatments known to be effective. At the same time we are conducting numerous trials of new therapies, but always in carefully planned clinical trials using reliable scientific methods. Although cure rates are improving we do not believe we have all of the answers so we remain open minded about new treatments for and approaches to cancer. It is important however that patients are fully informed about new therapies, especially when they are unconventional and of unproven benefit. Complementary & Alternative Therapies - Understanding the Differences Complementary therapies Complementary therapies do not claim to cure cancer, but may help people feel as well as possible and enhance their quality of life. Examples of complementary therapies include counselling, relaxation and meditation, massage, acupuncture, yoga, aromatherapy, and music and art therapy. Complementary therapies are generally unlikely to do any harm. However it is important that you talk with your Doctor before trying them to make sure they are suitable for your condition and will not impact your cancer treatment in any way. Alternative therapies Alternative therapies sometimes claim they provide a "miracle cure" but some may in fact have harmful side effects or potentially interfere with your treatment. Unlike conventional treatments, which have usually been proven to be effective through extensive clinical trials, most alternative therapies have not been scientifically tested and so proof of their effectiveness is usually lacking. Their side effects are also not always known. Examples of alternative therapies include special diets, shark cartilage, laetrile, spiritual healing, ozone therapy, herbal treatments, taking large doses of vitamin supplements, coffee enemas and microwave therapy. If you are thinking about trying an alternative therapy it is very important that you talk with your Doctor so that you have all the information you need before making a decision. Your Doctor will be able to help you understand any potential side effects and the impact it will have on your cancer treatment. Questions to ask when considering complementary & alternative therapies
Complementary therapies that can help
Healthy habits Advice on nutrition Many alternative dietary treatments, particularly those that cut out food groups such as meat or dairy products, may not provide enough energy (kilojoules) and protein. This can cause unwanted weight loss, tiredness and decrease your immune function. If you are considering making a dramatic change to your diet, talk to your dietitian or doctor first. Your dietitian can also give you advice on food to eat during and after cancer treatment so you stay as well as possible. Online information about complementary & alternative therapies The Sydney Cancer Centre does not endorse any particular websites, however we can suggest the following sites as a good place to start your research. British Columbia Cancer Agency, Canada National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, USA Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre (MSKCC), USA Integrative Medicine MSKCC Information Resource: About Herbs, Botanicals & Other Products MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA MD Anderson Integrative Medicine Program, USA Cancer Bacup UK, Cancer and complementary therapies |
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