Integrative Oncology Research Using Integrative Modalities

Integrative oncology research at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health focuses on well-being and healing before, during and after a cancer diagnosis. Research has been conducted on complementary approaches and lifestyle strategies geared towards a journey of healing.

Blending Conventional Treatments with Mind-Body and Lifestyle Therapies

Integrative oncology, combining mind-body practices, natural products and lifestyle modifications alongside conventional treatments, has shown promise in improving quality of life, reducing symptoms and supporting overall health.

Empowering Patients Through Personalizing Care and Self-Management

Santosh Rao, MD, explains his empowerment approach though helping patients understand what treatments work best for them and encouraging self-care, such as proper diet, stress management, physical activity, and emotional well-being. Evidence supports the effectiveness of integrative oncology, especially for stress management and physical activity, but research on its overall impact is still evolving.

Acupuncture for Symptom Relief in Cancer Care

A retrospective analysis of 399 outpatient and 394 inpatient acupuncture treatments evaluated the effects of acupuncture on self-reported symptoms in cancer patients at a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. The findings suggest acupuncture can effectively alleviate symptoms, and further research is needed to explore differences between outpatient and inpatient outcomes.

Analysis Highlights Clinical Impact of Music Therapy in Cancer Care

Another retrospective analysis of 4002 music therapy sessions provided to 1152 patients with hematologic/oncologic conditions examined the clinical delivery and effectiveness of music therapy at an academic cancer center. In the combined sample, statistically significant reductions in pain (1.48 units), anxiety (2.58 units), and fatigue (0.84 units) were observed, with changes in pain and anxiety exceeding clinically significant thresholds. Patients with sickle cell disease reported significantly greater pre-session pain (7.22 vs 5.81) and anxiety (6.11 vs 5.17) as well as greater anxiety reduction (2.89 vs 2.23) than patients with other hematologic/oncologic conditions. Patients’ comments contained themes including enjoyment, gratitude, and improvements in mood, pain, and anxiety.

The MATCHA Study for Managing Acute Oncologic Symptoms

The MAssage Therapy for CHildren, Adolescents, and young adults (MATCHA) study evaluated the delivery and effectiveness of massage therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults with hematologic and/or oncologic conditions, including sickle cell disease (SCD). The findings support massage therapy’s effectiveness for managing acute symptoms, warranting further research to optimize its use.