Cleveland Clinic’s Integrative Oncology Program is revolutionizing cancer treatment by combining conventional therapies with evidence-based complementary practices. This innovative approach focuses on treating the whole person, not just their physical symptoms, to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Naoki Umeda, a specialist at the Center for Integrative Medicine, emphasizes the program’s goal of empowering patients to actively participate in their care plan. The program offers a range of supportive services, including nutrition advice, stress reduction techniques, and acupuncture, all designed to alleviate treatment side effects and enhance overall well-being.
Unlike alternative medicine, integrative oncology is firmly rooted in scientific evidence. Dr. Laura Shoemaker, chair of the Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, stresses the importance of aligning these integrative therapies with standard cancer treatments to ensure safe and effective care throughout the patient’s journey.For more information on this groundbreaking approach, visit Cleveland Clinic’s Integrative Oncology Program.