Integrating complementary therapies into mainstream cancer care: which way forward?

Although viewed with scepticism by the medical and scientific community, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is being used by about 50% of Australians. Integrative medicine is a holistic approach to cancer care, with some CAM of proven effectiveness being used as adjuvants to conventional medical treatments. However, there is little evidence of a systematic process of evaluation or dialogue between mainstream cancer medicine and CAM providers in Australia. Collaboration, guidance and support for relevant research in this area are needed. The key elements of a process of furthering integrative medicine include improving knowledge about CAM; addressing uncertainties about CAM efficacy and safety; improving communication about CAM between medical practitioners and patients, and between medical practitioners and CAM practitioners; introducing regulatory frameworks and credentialing of CAM practitioners; and addressing ethical issues.