Abstract
A growing number of cancer patients use complementary and alternative therapies during and after conventional cancer treatment. Patients are often reluctant to discuss these therapies with their oncologist, and oncologists may have limited knowledge and confidence on how to advise patients on the appropriate use. Integrative oncology is a patient-centered, evidence-informed field that utilizes mind–body practices, lifestyle modifications and/or natural products interwoven with conventional cancer treatment. It prioritizes safety and best available evidence to offer appropriate interventions alongside conventional care. There are few opportunities for oncologists to learn about integrative oncology. In this commentary, we highlight the Integrative Oncology Scholars (IOS) program as a means to increase competency in this growing field. We provide an overview of several integrative oncology modalities that are taught through this program, including lifestyle modifications, physical activity, and mind–body interventions. We conclude that as more evidence is generated in this field, it will be essential that oncology healthcare providers are aware of the prevalent use of these modalities by their patients and cancer centers include Integrative Oncology trained physicians and other healthcare professionals in their team to discuss and recommend evidence-based integrative oncology therapies alongside conventional cancer treatments to their patients.
Highlights
Many cancer patients and survivors use complementary and alternative therapies during and after cancer treatment
Dr Karim, the first author and a trained Medical Oncologist recently had the opportunity to participate in the Integrative Oncology Scholars (IOS) Program at the University of Michigan
Several small trials have shown that acupuncture is effective in treating chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) [49,50,51,52]
Summary
Many cancer patients and survivors use complementary and alternative therapies during and after cancer treatment. Many patients report not receiving enough information about which therapies to use, and many choose therapies on the advice of their family and friends, rather than from a health care professional [5] This is a significant healthcare quality concern, since the lack of education of conventional healthcare providers, and inadequate communication between patients and providers may lead to potential harmful interactions, as well as lost opportunities to recommend potentially helpful evidence-based integrative therapies during a patient’s cancer journey. Dr Karim, the first author and a trained Medical Oncologist recently had the opportunity to participate in the Integrative Oncology Scholars (IOS) Program at the University of Michigan. Is a brief summary of reflections and important learnings from this program:
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
