Integrative Medicine in the Oncology Setting, What Does the Research Show?

Most oncology patients are using some form of complementary alternative medicine (CAM). These can include acupuncture, massage, yoga, homeopathy, energy work, spiritual healers, vitamins and supplements, mind-body interventions, diets, and many other modalities. Although many of these interventions are safe and beneficial, some of them can be harmful. Unfortunately, because of time constraints, knowledge deficits, and the acuity of our patients, assessment of the use of CAM is often overlooked. As nurse practitioners, we must educate ourselves about the evidence for safety and efficacy of these interventions.