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Combining Traditional And Non-Traditional Cancer Treatment

10 May 2023 by Joann Dunn

Cancer is always a difficult diagnosis, but it is certainly not a death sentence. Combining traditional and non-traditional cancer treatment can improve your quality of life and help combat the disease. Think of it as a one-two punch. Here's what you need to know about some cancer treatment options.

Traditional 

Traditional cancer treatments have been used for decades and are the options most commonly prescribed for cancer patients.

• Surgery. Surgery is the oldest form of cancer treatment. It involves removing all or part of a tumor. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, surgery may be done through a small incision or a large one. Surgery can be used to diagnose, stage, and treat certain types of cancer.
• Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy.
• Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that helps the body's natural defenses fight cancer by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells.

Non-Traditional

Traditional cancer treatment can help to eliminate or reduce tumors within the body, but they may also come with unwanted side effects. Non-traditional treatments are designed to help ease the side effects and improve the quality of life while undergoing traditional cancer treatment.

• CBD Oil. This naturally-occurring compound found in the cannabis plant has become increasingly popular for its purported anti-cancer properties. CBD stimulates the body's own natural defenses against cancer cells and can also help manage pain and anxiety.
• Nutritional Therapy. Proper nutrition is crucial for cancer patients to maintain their strength and help their bodies fight the disease. Many complementary therapies for cancer focus on dietary changes such as eliminating processed foods, increasing water intake, and adding nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and lean proteins.
• Mind-Body Practices. Meditation involves quieting the mind and focusing on the breath. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression in cancer patients. Other mind-body practices that may be beneficial for cancer patients include yoga, tai chi, and guided imagery.

While conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation remain the backbone of cancer therapy, there are many complementary therapies that can be used alongside standard treatment to improve patient outcomes. If you or a loved one are a cancer patient interested in combining traditional and non-traditional cancer treatment options, be sure to talk with your healthcare team about what options may be right for you.

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