1996/06/01 by Barrie R. Cassileth · 2 citations
Medicine · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies #Nutrition, Genetics, and Disease #Childhood Cancer Survivors' Quality of Life
paper · pdf · doi:10.1634/theoncologist.1-3-173
openalex publication_date 1996/06/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
Alternative and complementary therapies differ importantly, and the distinction between the two is crucial for clinical oncologists. "Alternative" or unproven therapies are treatments used independent of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. They can be dangerous directly and also by delaying patients' receipt of mainstream care. In contrast, complementary therapies typically are adjuncts to mainstream medicine. They can provide symptom control and noninvasive palliation with minimal side effects, improve patients' well-being and enhance cancer medicine. Complementary therapies represent a desired addition and balance to technologically sophisticated cancer care.