Cancer treatment has evolved tremendously over the years. Today, patients are not only looking for treatments that fight cancer but also approaches that improve their quality of life throughout the cancer journey. This is where integrative oncology comes in.
Integrative oncology is the evidence-informed combination of conventional cancer treatments—such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy—with complementary therapies that have been scientifically evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
Contrary to common misconceptions, integrative oncology does not replace conventional medicine. Instead, it supports patients by helping them manage treatment-related side effects, improve physical and emotional wellbeing, and enhance overall quality of life.
Examples of evidence-based complementary therapies include:
- Nutrition counselling
- Physical activity and exercise
- Mindfulness meditation
- Yoga
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Psychological counselling
- Sleep management
- Lifestyle medicine
Research has shown that many of these therapies can help reduce fatigue, anxiety, depression, nausea, pain, insomnia, and stress associated with cancer treatment.
At the Society for Integrative Oncology of Nigeria (SION), we believe every cancer patient deserves access to comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses the whole person—not just the disease.
