Integrated medicine: an essential tool in cancer care

Integrated medicine, where the best of complementary therapies are integrated with conventional treatment, is becoming an essential tool for good cancer care, according to leading cancer specialist Professor Karol Sikora.

In a paper to be published today (13th May 2009) at the national Integrated Health conference held at the King’s Fund, London, Professor Sikora says that is because the technical options in cancer treatment are increasingly complex and often mechanistic, and yet patients – who are not experts – are now expected to make decisions about their care.

Surveys have shown that, in NHS centres where complementary therapy packages are offered, up to 70% of women and 40% of men with cancer are taking some form of complementary therapy alongside their medical treatment.

Straightforward therapies such as group counselling and relaxation techniques can help patients come to terms with their illness and to cope with the sometimes unpleasant treatment. These are relatively inexpensive and are provided in many NHS cancer centres.

Other therapies involving prolonged one to one professional contact are more costly, yet a significant number of patients are choosing to pay for them.

Professor Sikora has called for a focused approach to integrated medicine in cancer care, and more research into the cost benefits of supportive care, including complementary therapies. He said:

'The cost of providing Integrated Medicine support is only a fraction of that used for cancer treatments, many of which are still given in situations where they have little benefit. 

'Diverting resources to supportive care could provide a new realism for modern healthcare and promote real patient empowerment.'

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1.     For interviews with Professor Sikora, and for information about the national Integrated Health conference, please contact Pat Goodall, 01246 410707 or pat.goodall@fih.org.uk

2.     Professor Sikora is Medical Director of Cancer Partners UK and Dean of the University of Buckingham Medical School. He is a Fellow of The Prince’s Foundation for Integrated Health. He was Professor of Cancer Medicine at Imperial College and Clinical Director of Cancer Services at the Hammersmith Hospital for twelve years. He was seconded as Chief of the WHO cancer programme for two years.

3.     The Prince’s Foundation for Integrated Health was founded by HRH The Prince of Wales in 1993. Its principal aim is to make sure that all patients can access good integrated healthcare. That means treating patients as whole human beings – paying attention to body, mind and soul. It may include access to proven complementary therapies, but the Foundation does not suggest that is necessarily the best course of action for all conditions and all patients. More information about the Foundation can be found at www.fih.org.uk

4.     Health and medical journalists are welcome to attend Putting people first, the national Integrated Health conference. It will take place 13th and 14th May at the King’s Fund, London. Full details of the programme are available at www.fih2009.co.uk To register, please contact Pat Goodall, 01246 410707, 07789 871234 or pat.goodall@fih.org.uk