Integrative Oncology: International Perspectives

Integr Cancer Ther. 2019 Jan-Dec:18:1534735418823266. doi: 10.1177/1534735418823266.

Abstract

Interest in integrative oncology (IO) is growing globally. Patients with cancer are actively using traditional complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) as part of their cancer and survivorship care. Published studies from around the world report increasing use of TCIM by people living with cancer. This article summarizes the presentations that took place during a symposium titled, "Integrative Oncology: International Perspectives" at the International Research Congress on Integrative Medicine and Health in Baltimore, 2018. The purpose of the presentations was to examine whether cancer services across a variety of geographical regions, including Australia, Canada, the United States, and the European Union, were actively responding to cancer survivors' demand for TCIM. The presenters highlighted utilization rates and both facilitators and barriers to the provision of IO services in their respective countries and regions. The audience discussion following the presentations drew out many noteworthy perspectives.

Keywords: TCIM; complementary therapy; integrative medicine; integrative oncology; supportive cancer care; traditional complementary and integrative medicine.

MeSH terms

  • Cancer Survivors / statistics & numerical data
  • Complementary Therapies / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Integrative Medicine / statistics & numerical data*
  • Integrative Oncology / statistics & numerical data*
  • Internationality
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires