E Ernst1. 1. Department of Complementary Medicine, School of Postgraduate Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom. E.Ernest@ex.ac.uk
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Complementary medicine has become an important aspect of palliative cancer care. This overview is primarily aimed at providing guidance to clinicians regarding some commonly used complementary therapies. METHODS: Several complementary therapies were identified as particularly relevant to palliative cancer care. Exemplary studies and, where available, systematic reviews are discussed. RESULTS: Promising results exist for some treatments, e.g. acupuncture, enzyme therapy, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, and relaxation techniques. Unfortunately, the author finds that the evidence is not compelling for any of these therapies. CONCLUSION: These results point to some potential for complementary medicine in palliative care. They also demonstrate an urgent need for more rigorous research into the value (or otherwise) of such treatments in palliative and supportive cancer care. Copyright 2001 American Cancer Society.
BACKGROUND: Complementary medicine has become an important aspect of palliative cancer care. This overview is primarily aimed at providing guidance to clinicians regarding some commonly used complementary therapies. METHODS: Several complementary therapies were identified as particularly relevant to palliative cancer care. Exemplary studies and, where available, systematic reviews are discussed. RESULTS: Promising results exist for some treatments, e.g. acupuncture, enzyme therapy, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, and relaxation techniques. Unfortunately, the author finds that the evidence is not compelling for any of these therapies. CONCLUSION: These results point to some potential for complementary medicine in palliative care. They also demonstrate an urgent need for more rigorous research into the value (or otherwise) of such treatments in palliative and supportive cancer care. Copyright 2001 American Cancer Society.
Authors: Monia Belletti; Luca Mallia; Fabio Lucidi; Simona Reichmann; Chiara Mastroianni; Maria Grazia De Marinis; Giuseppe Casale Journal: Support Care Cancer Date: 2010-11-08 Impact factor: 3.603