Integrative Oncology Enhances Cancer Treatment Tolerance on World Cancer Day
Integrative oncology combines standard cancer treatments with complementary therapies. On World Cancer Day, Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, a senior oncologist and co-founder of the Art of Healing Cancer, underscores the importance of evidence-based care in this field.
Importance of Standard Cancer Treatment
Dr. Malhotra emphasizes that integrative approaches should never replace evidence-based standard treatments. He asserts, “The standard of care must start without delay.” Patients seeking to bypass traditional treatments for integrative therapies are not accommodated, as this can be detrimental to their health.
Structured Approach to Integrative Oncology
Malhotra advocates for a systematic method rather than ad hoc recommendations in cancer care. His team has developed standardized operating procedures (SOPs) that utilize Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals. Each patient is closely monitored during any metabolic or dietary intervention.
- Key health metrics recorded include:
- Glycaemic levels
- Ketone levels
- Body mass index
- Muscle mass
- Weight changes
Scientific Basis of Metabolic Approaches
Central to this integrative model is the Glucose Ketone Index (GKI), a concept advanced by Professor Thomas Seyfried. Dr. Malhotra notes that achieving the desired GKI can enhance the effectiveness of cytotoxic drugs and potentially improve toxicity profiles.
Ethics and Informed Consent
When discussing the ethics of integrative therapy, Malhotra highlights the role of governance and transparency. All interventions are conducted with informed consent and under IRB oversight. He notes that dietary metabolic therapy falls within the AYUSH framework in India, requiring supervision and a scientific basis.
The Complexity of Nutrition in Oncology
Malhotra explains that nutrition transcends mere dietary restrictions. Each meal is meticulously calculated for calories, protein content, and metabolic responses. Oncologists and nutritionists must collaborate closely to optimize patient care.
Case Study: Enhancing Treatment Tolerance
Dr. Malhotra presents a notable case of a 70-year-old man with advanced oral cancer and other health complications. Traditionally, such a patient would face radical surgery followed by chemoradiation, often with poor outcomes. Instead, they applied an integrated metabolic strategy with low-dose chemotherapy.
The result was impressive; the patient tolerated treatment well, experiencing fewer side effects. Ultimately, he underwent limited surgery with no bone involvement, allowing him to return to normal life.
The Future of Integrative Oncology
Looking forward, Dr. Malhotra envisions a blend of metabolic therapy with precision oncology. He seeks to determine whether dietary or nutraceutical interventions can make chemotherapy more effective. This ongoing research may redefine the landscape of cancer care.
In conclusion, as the field of integrative oncology evolves, the emphasis remains on prioritizing scientifically validated treatments while exploring complementary options to improve patient outcomes.
