|
As the son of two doctors of
western medicine, I have never in the past felt kind
thoughts to those who are the zealots of alternative
cancer therapy. Lately, with a recognition of the mixed success
of conventional treatment, those thoughts now seem
naive. As the editor of this site, I often encounter
questions from readers testing my personal knowledge of
these now very popular non-conventional cancer
treatments. What is to be made of these alternative
protocols? Is there a successful combination of
conventional and alternative therapies for fighting HD?
Undoubtedly, successful
results from any therapy requires the combination of
health mind, body and soul. It was unthinkable 10 years
ago for doctors to sanctify their patients exploration
into the world of alternative therapy, but now
information on these protocols is offered freely at most
clinics nationwide. More and more doctors are
recognizing the many gaps in their scientific fact-based
model of treatment. Many doctors now concede that these
gaps can be filled for certain patients seeking
emotional support, relief from unrelenting nausea, and
even hope, with the help of non-traditional medicine.
Experts agree that conventional cancer could be lacking
in spiritual elements and the provision of hope.
Eastern practices are
popping up more and more into western based protocols.
Medical experts no longer condemn the use of meditation,
Zen, Yoga, and even acupuncture in the treatment of
their patients. Oncologists are recognizing this is no
longer a fad or cultural war, but an attempt to use
every means possible to save lives.
The catalyst for these
new beliefs comes from the overwhelming number of
patients interested in complementary therapy. According
to a study published last year reported by the Los
Angeles Times, 69% of cancer patients said they used
some form of complementary medicine, and 89% said they
would like more information on the topic. Recently, the
federal government's cancer organization, the National
Cancer Institute, established an office of complementary
and alternative medicine with a budget increase of $36.6
million in 1999 to $47 million this year.
So, here is the paradox.
Advances in therapy are occurring more rapidly than ever
with the recognition of finding treatments for cancer on
the genetic level. But at the same time, modern medicine
is accepting the need for non-conventional, once taboo,
eastern therapy to heal the emotional side and assist in
treatment. The job of a modern doctor is no longer to
solely rid the body of cancer cells, but to take into
account the full spectrum of healing. 'You can do nothing
for the body, if in the process you destroy the soul.'
For more list of common
non-conventional therapies, please visit the Cancer
Cure Foundation's list of alternative
cancer therapy.
|
|
