Understanding

Cancer and
Complementary
Therapies

Caring for people with cancer

 Understanding

Cancer and complementary therapies

This booklet has been written to help you to understand more about
cancer and complementary therapies. It has been prepared and
checked by medical doctors, complementary therapists, other relevant
specialists, nurses and patients. The information in this booklet is an
agreed view on the benefits and risks of complementary therapies for
patients with cancer. You can make a note below of the contact names
and information that you may need.

>>> Name Telephone

Specialist nurse

Family doctor (GP)

Surgeon

Medical oncologist

Medical social worker

Dietitian
This booklet has been produced by the Irish Cancer Society to meet the need for
Contents
improved communication, information and support for cancer patients and their
families throughout diagnosis and treatment. We would like to thank all those
patients, families and professionals whose support and advice made this publication
possible. We especially thank the people who generously shared their personal
experiences in this booklet. We also acknowledge the contribution of the many
consultants, nurses and other healthcare professionals and complementary therapists Standard, complementary and alternative —
who so kindly gave up their time and expertise to contribute to previous editions of
this booklet. what's the difference? Page 7 
MEDICAL AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY ADVISERS
Dr Patricia Fox, Programme Director, Graduate Diploma in Cancer Nursing/
Researcher in cancer care Choosing complementary therapies Page 13 
Diarmuid Duggan, Senior Dietitian

CONTRIBUTOR
Roz Flaherty, Cancer Nurseline Nurse Types of complementary therapies Page 19 
EDITOR
Sarah Lane
Further information Page 31 
The following sources were used in the publication of this booklet:
■ The Desktop Guide to Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Evidence-
Based Approach. E Ernst, MH Pittler & B Wider, Mosby Elsevier, 2006. Support resources Page 37 
■ About Herbs, Botanicals and Other Products. Memorial Sloan – Kettering Cancer
Center, (2008), http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/11570.cfm
■ National Cancer Institute (US) (2008), http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopic
■ Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Facility (US),
2008.
■ Thinking about Complementary & Alternative Medicine: For People with Cancer.
National Cancer Institute, National Center for Complementary and Alternative
Medicine (US), 2005.

Published in Ireland by the Irish Cancer Society.

© Irish Cancer Society, 2007, revised 2008, 2013, 2018
Next revision: 2021
This booklet offers information only and does not replace medical advice.
The inclusion of any complementary or alternative therapy does not mean it is
endorsed by the Irish Cancer Society. All therapies as described in the booklet
should be used with caution by cancer patients, and only after talking to their doctor.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted,

in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in
writing from the Irish Cancer Society.
4 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 5

Quick facts I don’t like the idea of putting chemicals Page 30 

into my body. Should I try a ‘natural’
alternative?
What are complementary therapies? Page 8 

Natural doesn’t mean safe. Using a product that hasn’t been through
Complementary therapies are treatments and activities that you can
proper clinical trials can be dangerous. Doctors use standard
have along with your standard medical treatment to try and feel
treatments like surgery and chemotherapy because they have been
better. For example, massage, counselling and acupuncture.
scientifically proven as the best and most effective treatments
against cancer. ‘Natural’ products like plants and herbs may have
serious side-effects, damage your health or cause dangerous
Will complementary therapies help me? Page 8  interactions with other medications.

Some people say that certain complementary therapies can help

them to feel more relaxed and better able to cope with their cancer
and the side-effects of treatment. Complementary therapies can’t Where can I find out more? Page 33 
treat or cure cancer.
It’s very important to talk to your doctor if you’re thinking of using
complementary or alternative therapies. You can also talk to one of
What’s the difference between Page 10  our cancer nurses by calling our Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700
complementary and alternative therapies? or by visiting a Daffodil Centre. There are some helpful websites on
page 33.

Complementary therapies are used together with standard medical

treatment. Alternative therapies are used instead of standard
medical care. We’re here for you Page 40 

If you or your family have any questions or worries, want to know

Does the Irish Cancer Society support Page 6  where to get support, or if you just need to talk, you can talk to one
alternative therapies? of our cancer nurses.
Ways to get in touch
We don’t support using alternative therapies. There’s no scientific
proof that they work and, more importantly, they may not be safe. ■ Call our Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700
Standard medical treatments are now very effective at controlling ■ Drop in to a Daffodil Centre
and often curing cancer, and side-effects are better managed now. ■ Email us: [email protected]
Choosing an unproven alternative may mean you miss out on a
See page 40 for more about our services.
standard treatment that may help you.
6 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies

Introduction
Complementary and alternative therapies are products and activities
that are not part of standard (conventional) medical care. These can
range from relaxation techniques and physical therapies to herbal
products, vitamins and special diets. Standard, complementary
This booklet has been written to help you to understand more
about: and alternative – what's the
■ The difference between complementary and alternative therapies
■ Types of therapies you might hear about
difference?
■ Their benefits to cancer patients, and any risks
Standard (conventional) treatments 8
The Irish Cancer Society believes that in some cases complementary
therapies – used together with conventional, evidence-based Complementary therapies 8
treatment – can help people cope with the symptoms of disease and
its treatment, aid relaxation, and reduce tension and anxiety.
Many of our affiliated cancer support centres across the country
Alternative therapies 10
provide a range of complementary therapies for cancer patients.
The Society does not advocate the use of alternative therapies. If a Will it help? Is it safe? 11
patient is planning to start an alternative medicine or treatment, it is
vital that they discuss this with their doctor.
The Society welcomes more scientific research into complementary
and alternative therapies. This will help patients to make informed
decisions about their care and support health professionals to give
the best advice to their patients about therapies that are helpful and
safe.
The Society asks those who have any questions about any type of
cancer treatment or therapy to discuss them with their doctor.
You can also call our Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700
or drop into a Daffodil Centre in one of 13 hospitals nationwide.
8 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 9

Standard (conventional) treatments ■ Help you to feel more in control of your illness and more hopeful or
positive
These are the treatments normally used in hospitals. For example, ■ Give you a sense of comfort and wellbeing, as they often focus on
surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, caring for the whole person, not just the disease or symptom.
immunotherapy and targeted therapies.

Why do people use standard treatments? >>> Complementary therapies are not meant to replace standard
■ Standard medical treatments have been thoroughly researched and treatments or cure cancer.
tested to prove that they work and are safe to use for humans.
■ They cure many cancers and help people to live longer and to Here are some therapies that people have found helpful, alongside
manage side-effects better. their standard treatment:
■ Doctors understand how these treatments work and know which
dose works best. Anxiety Hypnosis, massage, yoga, meditation,
■ Doctors understand the different possible side-effects of each relaxation techniques, mindfulness
treatment and how likely they are to happen.
Fatigue Exercise, massage, relaxation techniques,
mindfulness, yoga
More people than ever are surviving cancer, thanks to cancer research
Nausea and vomiting Acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage,
finding new and improved treatments. Standard treatments don’t
cure everyone’s cancer, but they are effective for very many people. hypnosis, music therapy

Pain Acupuncture, aromatherapy, hypnosis,

massage, music therapy

Complementary therapies Sleep problems Exercise, relaxation techniques,

mindfulness, yoga
These are therapies that can be used together with standard medical
treatment to help people feel better emotionally and to manage side- Stress Aromatherapy, exercise, hypnosis,
effects and symptoms. For example, meditation, massage, massage, meditation, tai chi, yoga
aromatherapy and acupuncture.

Why do people use complementary therapies?

Different complementary therapies can help some patients to feel Integrative care
better mentally and physically, both during treatment and afterwards. Integrative care means combining (integrating) your standard cancer
They may: treatment with complementary therapies to try to feel as well as
■ Help you to feel more relaxed possible and to cope better with your cancer.
■ Reduce anxiety, stress, tension and depression
■ Reduce symptoms like pain, nausea, breathlessness or fatigue
10 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 11

Alternative therapies ■ Cost you a lot of money

■ Affect your family life
These are therapies that are used instead of standard treatment.
For example, ‘anti-cancer’ diets and herbal preparations. Some ■ Leave you without support and follow-up care, especially if you
alternative therapies claim to treat or cure cancer, but while some are travelling for alternative treatment
people may say they are helpful, there is no scientific evidence Remember: Delaying standard treatment for cancer can make it
that they have any benefit. much harder to treat. It can also make a curable cancer incurable.

Why do people use alternative therapies?

■ Some people believe that chemotherapy drugs and other Will it help? Is it safe?
standard treatments are ‘toxic’ or damaging to the body and
prefer to use what they think are ‘natural’ therapies. You have the right to decide on your own treatment and care, but
it’s very important to make sure your decision is based on
■ Not all information about alternative therapies is reliable, so scientific research evidence and facts. The two main questions to
people may be confused or mistaken about the benefits of an ask are:
alternative therapy.
■ Will it help?
■ Some alternative therapies claim that they work better than ■ Is it safe?
standard treatments, and so can offer hope to people. This can
be especially attractive to someone with advanced cancer, if Your doctors can give you advice about this – it’s their job to do
standard treatment isn’t controlling their cancer any more. the very best for you.

■ Some people feel that hospital-based medicine doesn’t focus Our nurses are also here to support you if you have any questions
on their spiritual and emotional well-being, and that an about standard cancer treatments or complementary or alternative
alternative approach is more personal and less clinical. therapies. Call our Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or drop into
a Daffodil Centre.
■ A cancer diagnosis can turn a person’s world upside down.
Making a choice about treatment can give a sense of control at Remember that standard treatments have been through all kinds
this difficult time. The key is to make the right informed of trials and tests before they can be used. This is not true for
choice. alternative therapies. You may miss out on a treatment that could
really help you if you refuse standard treatment.
■ Some alternative treatments are part of a person’s culture.
For example, Chinese traditional medicine.
Be careful about putting your faith in a therapy without scientific
proof that it works. It may:
■ Have no effect at all, which may be very disappointing or
upsetting if you had put your faith in it
■ Damage your health
■ Stop other treatments from working
Cancer Nurseline Freephone 1800 200 700
Choosing complementary
therapies
Talking to your doctor or cancer nurse 14

Choosing a complementary therapist 15

Talking to therapists 16

Cancer support centres 17

 14 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 15

Talking to your doctor or cancer nurse Choosing a complementary therapist

Your cancer nurses and doctors know about your treatment, your Complementary therapies are not regulated in Ireland. Some therapists
health and any medications you’re taking, so always check with have a lot of training and experience whereas others have very little, so
them before trying a complementary therapy. it’s worth doing a bit of research to find a good therapist.
Many complementary therapies are safe, but some therapies can ■ Ask at the hospital or your local cancer support centre for advice and
interact with cancer treatments or may not be suitable if you have recommendations. See page 42 for more about cancer support
any other health conditions, even if you used them without problems centres.
before your diagnosis. For example, acupuncture may not be safe to ■ Contact the professional organisation of the therapy in question to
use if you have a low white blood cell count and some vitamins and get the names of practitioners who are certified and registered.
herbs can interact with cancer treatments. Your doctor or nurse can ■ Find out what a practitioner needs to do to be accepted as a member
recommend therapies that are safe and helpful for you. of the professional organisation. For example:
– Do they need certain professional qualifications, for example a
diploma?

>>> Hints and tips: Talking to your medical – Do they have to have a certain number of hours’ experience?

team – Do they need to have insurance?

■ Talk to your oncology doctor or specialist nurse if you have a – Have they signed up to a professional code of conduct and / or
question about a particular therapy. complaints procedure?
■ Ask if they can recommend any complementary therapies that might ■ Ask the practitioner about their training and experience, including if
be safe and useful for you. they have any experience with cancer patients.
■ Ask your doctor or nurse to suggest a therapist, or speak with a ■ Choose a therapist who will work together with your doctors and
healthcare professional who knows about the therapy in question. your hospital treatment plan. Many cancer support centres ask for a
■ Tell your doctor about any therapies you have used before or are letter from your cancer specialist or have a simple form for them to
currently using. fill in before they start giving any complementary therapies, so that
■ Show your doctor, nurse or pharmacist any tablets, remedies or they can check that the therapy is suitable for you.
herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking, even things that aren’t
related to your cancer. Bring them with you when visiting the Don’t overpay
hospital, surgery or pharmacy, even if you have used them safely in Be sure that you’re paying a fair price for the therapy or product. Some
the past or think they are harmless.
can be very expensive.
■ If there’s a professional organisation for the therapy you’re interested
in, you could ask them roughly what you should be charged.
■ Many cancer support centres have free or reduced-price
complementary therapy sessions.
■ Check with your health insurance company or the Health Service
Executive (HSE) if they cover the therapy in question.
 16 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 17

Need more help? Cancer support centres

Talk to one of our cancer nurses. Call our Cancer Nurseline on If you are interested in trying complementary therapies during or after
1800 200 700, or drop into a Daffodil Centre. your cancer treatment, you could visit your local cancer support
centre. Our affiliated cancer support centres provide a range of
services for cancer patients and their families.

Talking to therapists

‘
The Centre has played a huge part in my road to

’
On your first visit to a therapist, expect them to ask about your full
medical history, including: recovery.
■ Any past illnesses
■ Your current state of health and information about your diagnosis
■ Any treatments that you are currently having or had in the past Many centres offer therapies free of charge. For example:
■ Any medications or supplements you’re taking ■ Acupuncture ■ Art therapy
■ Any allergies you have ■ Reflexology ■ Relaxation
■ Bio-energy healing ■ Exercise classes
■ Massage ■ Yoga
>>> Hints and tips: Staying safe ■ Reiki
Safe therapists will not:
Free one-to-one counselling is also available, to patients and their
■ Claim they can cure your cancer families.
■ Tell you to stop seeing your doctor or other people caring for you
Not all therapies are available in all centres, so call into your nearest
■ Tell you to stop taking your medicine or change your standard
one and see what’s available. If you need help finding support in your
treatment
area, call our Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil
■ Tell you to stop your standard cancer treatment, for example
chemotherapy
Centre. There's a list of affiliated cancer support centres on our
website, www.cancer.ie/support/support-in-your-area/directory
■ Charge you a lot of money

‘
I find the centre so supporting and comforting…
The amount of services they provide is fantastic.
I was so afraid going in at the beginning but now

Email: [email protected]
it’s my second home.
’
Types of complementary
therapies
Counselling and self-help methods 20

Exercise-based therapies 21

Massage therapies 24

Mind–body and spiritual approaches 25

Creative therapies 26

Energy therapies 27

Diet and nutrition 28

20 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 21

Counselling and self-help methods Tips

If you’re interested in counselling or self-help, take time to find what
Talking with a trained professional like a counsellor or to other people suits you best. If a particular counsellor or support group doesn’t suit
in a similar situation may help you to manage your feelings, such as you, try something else.
anxiety, anger and sadness. You may also feel more supported and less
alone. It can also help you to learn ways to cope emotionally and Find out more
practically with your diagnosis. ■ Ask one of our cancer nurses for advice on types of therapies and
how to find services near you. Call our Cancer Nurseline on
Examples of counselling methods 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil Centre to talk to a cancer nurse.
■ Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT): With CBT a therapist will help ■ Many cancer support centres have support groups and free one-to-one
you to learn new ways of thinking and behaving that can improve counselling funded by the Irish Cancer Society.
your coping skills and help you to manage stress, anxiety and
■ Talk to the specialist nurse or medical social worker at the hospital.
depression.
Ask if your hospital has a pyscho-oncology service. This is a team of
■ Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is a talking therapy where a trained experts who give emotional and psychological care to people with
psychotherapist will help you to understand any problems you’re cancer.
having and find ways to cope.

‘
Self-help and support methods
Friendship and support of others is hugely
■ Support groups: Support groups bring people together so that they
beneficial … to my overall wellbeing. It brought the

’
can share experiences and advice and support each other. Support
groups may be run by a professional such as counsellor or nurse, or realisation that I could live life fully and happily.
by the group members. Research has shown that people with cancer in
support groups found it improved their mood, helped them to cope
better with day-to-day challenges, and reduced their pain.
Exercise-based therapies
Exercise is one of the most effective therapies for people with cancer,

‘
I found counselling wonderful, to be able to discuss both for physical and mental health. Exercise has been proven to improve
my thoughts and fears … getting the tools to help some cancer-related symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety and depression.
me deal with my anxiety when it strikes, e.g. Research suggests that being physically active, along with eating a
waiting on scan results. It makes you feel safe and healthy diet, can increase cancer survival rates and help to reduce the
less alone. It has given me hope for the future. I am risk of some cancers coming back after treatment.
very happy and content for the moment, even

’
Examples of exercise-based methods:
though I have to live with this. It’s how I cope.
■ Walking: A regular 30-minute walk can increase fitness, improve
heart and bone health, help you to stay a healthy weight and lift your
mood.
22 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 23

■ Pilates: Pilates involves small, controlled movements and What people say about Strides for Life
breathing exercises that aim to increase strength, flexibility and

‘
balance, as well as helping you to relax.
Amazing … Love Strides for Life. I look forward to it
■ Yoga: Yoga is a system of stretches and poses that can increase
every week. Met so many friends. You’re never
flexibility, stamina and strength. It also focuses on breathing and
alone. Now I go out walking most days, do yoga

’
meditation to help you to relax, sleep better and feel less stressed.
It may also help with fatigue during treatment. and keep fit. I can honestly say it’s my life saver.

‘
Tips It’s good to walk with people who are going through
■ Most people will benefit from exercise, but discuss your exercise similar cancer journeys. It has improved my fitness,

’
plans with your doctor or nurse before continuing or starting any so I feel better able to cope if I have a procedure.
form of exercise.
■ Taking part in an organised group activity can give you support

‘
and company, as well as the physical benefits. We exercised in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
I loved meeting all the other group members,
Find out more having the chat and sharing tips … Lots of support
■ Ask at the hospital or your local cancer support centre for to help ourselves get better. I improved my fitness

’
information on special exercise programmes for people with
and it helped me regain my confidence.
cancer.
■ Many cancer support centres offer groups and classes for various
exercise-based therapies.
■ Ask our cancer nurses about the Strides for Life walking groups
or other exercise programmes. Call our Cancer Nurseline on
1800 200 700 or go to a Daffodil Centre to find out more.

Strides for Life

Strides for Life is a 15-week group walking programme for people who
have had a cancer diagnosis, based on the Murphy Cardiovascular METs
programme.
It aims to help people to get active and improve their overall health and
well-being. It is designed to suit each individual participant’s fitness
level, gradually increasing the workload every week over the 15 weeks.
24 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 25

Massage therapies Mind-body and spiritual approaches

Massage therapies involve rubbing, tapping or pressing the muscles or Mind-body methods are based on the belief that the mind can affect
soft tissues of the body. These types of therapies may help you to relax the body. Some mind-body methods may help you to feel more
and feel better in yourself. Massage may also help reduce stiffness and relaxed and better able to cope with your illness and treatment.
pain, help you to sleep better and improve fatigue.
Examples of mind-body methods
Most massage therapists who have specialised training to give massage
to patients with a cancer diagnosis will ask you for a signed consent
■ Meditation: Involves techniques such as focused breathing or
repetition of words to calm your mind and help you to enter a state
form from your doctor to say that it is safe for you to have a massage.
of stillness and deep relaxation.
■ Mindfulness: Mindfulness means being aware and present in each
>>> Massage will not cause cancer to spread. moment. Mindfulness is a type of meditation that focuses your
mind in the present to reduce anxiety and improve mental
Examples of massage therapies wellbeing.
■ Aromatherapy massage: This involves massaging with essential oils ■ Relaxation techniques: Breathing and muscle relaxation exercises
from plants. Certain oils may have particular benefits. For example, to reduce stress, increase wellbeing and improve blood pressure
lavender oil is said to be relaxing. and muscle tension.
■ Shiatsu: This involves applying pressure on points of the body using
Find out more
thumbs and gentle stretches. It may help to relieve tension or stress
and improve fatigue.
■ Many cancer support centres have classes where you can learn and
practise these techniques.
■ Reflexology: Applying pressure to points on the hands and feet.
It may help to lift your mood or help you to cope with pain, stress
■ You can ask one of our cancer nurses for advice on types of
therapies and how to find services near you. Call our Cancer
and anxiety.
Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil Centre to talk to a
Tips cancer nurse.
■ Tell your massage therapist about your cancer and any treatment
you have had. Not all types of massage are suitable for cancer
Prayer or therapies focusing on spiritual feelings or beliefs can
patients. For example, deep tissue and Swedish massage are too
help some people to cope better. Spirituality may give a sense
vigorous for people with cancer. of peace or purpose, connection with others and help a person
■ Avoid massage immediately after chemotherapy or radiotherapy and to make sense of their illness.
in the area of recent surgery or over a known tumour site.

‘
Massage can be a way of relaxing and taking time
out. There are many benefits such as helping with
nausea, constipation, bone and muscle pain.
’ Cancer Nurseline Freephone 1800 200 700
26 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 27

Creative therapies Energy therapies

Creative therapies may boost your self-esteem and help you to These therapies are based on the belief that the body has energy
release negative emotions, relax and feel more positive. fields that can be used to promote wellbeing. There’s evidence
that some of these therapies may help you to feel better in yourself
Examples of creative therapies or improve some of the side-effects of cancer and its treatment.
■ Art therapy: Using paint, sculpture, drawing or art appreciation There’s no evidence that they can treat or cure cancer.
to explore and express your feelings. It can be done in groups or
individually. Examples of energy therapies
■ Creative writing: Writing can help you to find your voice, ■ Acupuncture: This involves puncturing the skin with tiny,
express your creativity and explore your emotions in a safe, hair-thin needles, which are left in place for a few minutes then
supportive environment. removed. Acupuncture may help symptoms like pain, insomnia,
fatigue, dry mouth, breathlessness, feeling sick and hot flushes.
■ Music therapy: Listening, playing or singing may calm your mind
It may also help to reduce anxiety and help you feel more
and body, improve your mood and reduce pain and anxiety.
relaxed.
Tips ■ Reiki: Reiki (‘ray-key’) involves a practitioner placing their hands
■ Make sure the therapist is well qualified, so that they can help in a series of positions on or over your body using gentle strokes
you manage any strong emotions you may have during the or touches. There is no scientific evidence to prove that Reiki can
session. treat or cure cancer, but it may help to reduce stress and pain,
help you to feel more relaxed and improve your mood.
■ If you don’t want to visit a therapist or group session, you may
still benefit from writing a diary, listening to music or creating art ■ Qi-gong: Qi-gong combines movement, meditation and breathing
at home. exercises. It may help you to feel less stressed and better in
yourself. It may also help with symptoms such as pain, fatigue
Find out more and nausea.
■ Many cancer support centres have classes where you can learn
and practise these techniques. Tip
■ Acupuncture is not suitable for everyone, for example people with
a low white blood cell or platelet count.

Find out more

■ Call our Cancer Nurseline or visit a Daffodil Centre for advice on
finding a reputable practitioner.
■ Many cancer support centres run free energy therapy sessions,
e.g. reiki. See our website www.cancer.ie/support to find a
centre near to you.
28 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 29

Diet and nutrition >>> Hints and tips: Vitamins and minerals
A healthy diet with a good balance of protein, carbohydrate, fats,
■ Vitamins and minerals are important for your health, so try to have a
vitamins and minerals is an important part of feeling as well as varied, balanced diet that will give you vitamins, minerals and plant
possible after a cancer diagnosis. A well-balanced diet can: substances (phytochemicals). Fresh vegetables and fruit are good sources
■ Keep up your energy and strength of phytochemicals.
■ Help your body to cope with treatment and any side-effects ■ You may think vitamins are harmless, but large amounts of vitamins or
■ Reduce your risk of infection minerals can be harmful or interfere with your treatment, so be careful.
For example:
■ Help you to heal and recover better
– Too much vitamin A can cause liver or bone damage.
If your diet isn’t balanced or you cut out certain foods, it can – Taking vitamin C supplements may interfere with radiotherapy and
make you feel more unwell or increase side-effects or symptoms. some chemotherapy drugs and lessen their effect.
■ If you have cancer, don’t take supplements unless your doctor tells you to.
Did you know?
■ Protein is very important for healing after surgery
■ Iron is important for red blood cell production Find out more
■ Calcium and vitamin D are needed for healthy bones ■ Ask to talk to the dietitian at the hospital if you have any questions
or want advice on eating the best diet possible.
What’s the best diet for me?
■ Our booklet Diet and Cancer has lots of advice on diet in
The best diet for you depends on your general health, the type of
general and specific diets and recipes for different
diet you normally prefer, the type of treatment you’re having and
eating problems. Download or order it from our
if you’re having any side-effects or symptoms.
website www.cancer.ie/publications. You can also get
For example, after stomach surgery you may need a special diet to a copy from a Daffodil Centre or by calling our Cancer
make sure you get enough calories. If you're finding it hard to Nurseline.
swallow you may need a soft diet. ■ Get advice from one of our cancer nurses. Call our Cancer
Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil Centre.
Tips
Some foods can interfere with cancer treatments. For example,
■ If you want to find a dietitian, go to the website of the Irish Nutrition
& Dietetic Institute, www.indi.ie
grapefruit juice interacts with many medications. Your doctor or
pharmacist can give you more advice on possible interactions and
foods that should be avoided with your medicine.
Dietitian or nutritionist? Getting the best advice
Can diet cure cancer? The best person to advise you on your diet is a dietitian. Dietitians are fully
qualified and regulated healthcare professionals. Nutritionists or
Because diet is linked to an increased risk of some cancers, some
nutritional therapists may have far less training and they are not regulated,
people believe that diet can treat or cure cancer. Even if diet plays
so you may get very different advice, depending on which nutritionist you
a part in a cancer developing, there is no scientific evidence that
speak to.
any food or diet can reverse the disease or cure cancer.
30 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies

Herbs and plant extracts

Many herbs and other plants have proven effects on the
human body – some helpful and some harmful. You may also
read false claims made about the power of certain plants to treat or cure
cancer. Further information
If you have cancer, it’s important to be very careful with herbal products
and plant extracts. The active ingredients can have unpredictable and
harmful effects, and they may interact with your medication. It’s very Making sense of health claims 32
important to talk to your doctor if you’re thinking about taking any herbs
or plant extracts during your cancer treatment.
Information about complementary & alternative therapies 33

What does that word mean? 34

32 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 33

Making sense of health claims How to check out health claims

■ Talk to your doctor.
It can be hard to make sense of information about complementary
■ Use independent, reliable websites, like cancer organisations’ and
and alternative therapies. Sometimes you may read how a particular
government health websites for information. Some are listed below.
therapy helped a person, or see what seems to be very convincing
evidence about a miracle cure.
■ Find out about the website – do they have contact details,
information about the qualifications of the person writing the
Here are some things to watch out for: information or any sponsors?
Personal experiences: Using patient stories as ‘proof’ for the therapy,
rather than scientific research studies. This is a sign that there may
not be much real scientific evidence behind the claims being made.
Information about complementary and
Describing the therapy as a cure for cancer: The only treatments
alternative therapies
that have been scientifically proven to cure cancer are conventional There is a lot of information available on complementary and
treatments like surgery. alternative therapies, so it’s important to use reliable, trusted sources.
Check on respected cancer organisations’ websites to see if there's Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Cancer
any evidence to back up the claims being made. www.cam-cancer.org: Summaries of the benefits and risks of
Exaggerating the benefits: There may be scientific research to prove different therapies, based on research evidence.
that a therapy has a particular effect – for example, it may reduce
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, About Herbs,
swelling, have antioxidant effects or speed up healing. But this Botanicals and Other Products
doesn’t mean that it can cure or control cancer. www.mskcc.org: Large database of herbs, plants and other products
Read carefully to see what the proven effects of a therapy are and and treatments, with evidence-based information on their:
check that this matches the benefits it claims to have. ■ Uses
Laboratory or animal studies: Sometimes you may read about a ■ Benefits
therapy killing cancer cells in a laboratory or working on animals like ■ Risks
rats or mice. Sometimes when these therapies are tested in humans ■ Known interactions with other herbs or medicines
they prove to be useful, but other times the beneficial effect doesn’t
Cancer Research UK
happen with humans.
www.cruk.org: General information on complementary therapies and
Unless a therapy has gone through human trials, there’s no way of information on selected individual therapies, based on research
knowing if it will be helpful or not. evidence.
Selling products or information relating to the therapy: If a
webpage is making money from selling products or treatments, there’s
more reason for them to exaggerate the benefits or give misleading or
incomplete information.
34 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 35

Essential oil An oily liquid that is taken from some

What does that word mean? plants by distillation or cold pressing. The
Alternative therapies Therapies used instead of conventional word essential refers to the fragrant essence
medicine. of the plant.
Anecdotal evidence Information passed by word-of-mouth Free radicals Highly reactive chemicals that often
but not recorded scientifically, such as contain oxygen or nitrogen. They are
personal stories. formed naturally in your body as a
byproduct of chemical reactions. Because
Antioxidants Chemicals such as vitamins, enzymes
they can cause cell damage they are linked
and minerals which protect your body
to cancer.
from other chemicals called free radicals
that cause cell damage. Antioxidants are Holistic An approach to health that considers the
found in foods such as berries, broccoli, whole body and environment when
tomatoes, red grapes, garlic, spinach, tea offering treatment. It focuses on the mind,
and carrots. body and spirit of a person rather than on
Well-known antioxidants include vitamin the body and disease only.
A, vitamin C and vitamin E. See also free Home remedy Foods or common household items that are
radicals. used to treat an illness or ailment. Usually
Bodywork A term that refers to therapies such as it arises from tradition or habit.
massage and deep tissue manipulation Integrative medicine This combines conventional medicine with
that aim to improve the structure and complementary therapies.
working of your body.
Metabolism All the chemical changes that take place in
CAM Complementary and alternative medicine. your body. These occur when food is taken
Chemotherapy A treatment to cure or control cancer in to make energy and allow your body to
using drugs. grow.
Complementary therapies A way of promoting health and Natural products Chemicals that occur in nature that can be
well-being using therapies that can be used as medicines. This does not mean
used alongside conventional medicine. that they are safe but that they are found in
nature.
Conventional medicine A way of treating people based on
scientific evidence. Orthodox medicine Another name for conventional or standard
medicine.
Eastern medicine A broad term for therapies that began in
Asian countries like China, Tibet, Japan, Physiotherapy The use of physical means – massage,
India and Thailand. These therapies are exercise, heat or electricity – to relieve pain,
generally not based on scientific evidence restore movement and muscle strength. It is
but have been used for centuries. based on medical science and part of
conventional medicine.
36 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies

Physical therapy Another name for physiotherapy (especially

in the USA).
Placebo effect Something positive that occurs when you are
given a harmless substance with no active
ingredient. For example, as a pill, liquid,
powder or injection. It produces an effect, not Support resources
due to the drug or therapy, but because you
expect something positive will happen. It
includes the power of suggestion. Coping with the financial impact of cancer 38
Practitioner A person who performs conventional,
complementary or alternative therapies. Irish Cancer Society services 40
Radiotherapy A treatment for cancer using high-energy
X-rays.
Local cancer support services 42
Standard medicine Another name for conventional medicine.
Therapist A person skilled in a particular type of therapy. Helpful books 43
Traditional medicine This term can have two meanings.
(1) Medical techniques developed and used
before the age of modern medicine. These can
include herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese
Medicine and homeopathy. (2) The term is
sometimes used to describe modern medicine,
especially by those offering alternative
therapies.
Wellness care Another name for complementary therapies.
Western medicine Usually refers to therapies that began and
developed in Europe and North America, and
which are based on scientific evidence.
38 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 39

Benefit, Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, Carer’s Allowance,

Coping with the financial impact of cancer Carer’s Benefit, Carer’s Leave.
A diagnosis of cancer often means that you will have extra expenses, If you want more information on benefits and allowances, contact:
like car parking during hospital visits, medication, travel, heating and
■ The medical social worker in the hospital you are attending
childcare costs. If you can’t work or you are unemployed, this may
■ Citizens Information – Tel: 0761 074 000
cause even more stress. It may be harder for you to deal with cancer if
you are worried about money. ■ Department of Social Protection (DSP) – Tel: 1890 662 244 or ask to
speak to a DSP representative at your local health centre or DSP
Medical expenses office.
Medical expenses that you might have to pay include: Always have your PPS number to hand when you are asking about
■ Visits to your family doctor (GP) ■ Medicines entitlements and benefits. It’s also a good idea to photocopy completed
■ Visits to hospital ■ Appliances, like wigs forms before posting them.
■ Overnight stays in hospital If you have financial difficulties
How much you pay towards your medical expenses depends on If you are getting into debt or you are in debt, the Money Advice and
whether or not you qualify for a medical card and what type of health Budgeting Service (MABS) can help you. MABS can look at your
insurance you have, if any. situation, work out your budget, help you to deal with your debts and
manage your payments. The service is free and confidential. Call the
If you have a medical card, you will probably have very little to pay
MABS Helpline 0761 07 2000 for information.
for hospital and GP (family doctor) care or your medication. If you are
over 70 years old, you can get a free GP visit card. If you are finding it hard to cope financially, contact your medical social
worker in the hospital or your local health centre for advice. The Irish
Medical cards are usually for people on low incomes, but sometimes a
Cancer Society can also give some help towards travel costs in certain
card can be given even if your income is above the limit. For example,
cases. See page 41 for more details of our Volunteer Driver Service and
if you have a large amount of medical expenses. This is known as a
the Travel2Care fund.
discretionary medical card.
You can also call our Cancer Nurseline 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil
An emergency medical card may be issued if you are terminally ill
Centre and the nurse will suggest ways to help you manage.
and in palliative care, irrespective of your income.
If you do not have a medical card you will have to pay some of the More information
cost of your care and medication. For more information go to www.cancer.ie/publications and check out
If you have health insurance the insurance company will pay some of our booklet, Managing the Financial Impact of Cancer –
the costs, but the amount will depend on your insurance plan. It’s A Guide for Patients and their Families. This explains:
important to contact your insurance company before starting treatment. ■ Medical costs and help available
■ Benefits and allowances that you or your family may
Benefits and allowances qualify for
There are benefits available from the Department of Social Protection ■ Travel services
that can help people who are ill and their family. For example, Illness ■ Ways to cope with the cost of cancer
40 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 41

The booklet also has lots of other information to help you manage the ■ Patient travel and financial support services. We provide practical
cost of cancer. For example, disability and mobility supports, help for and financial support for patients in need, travelling to and from
people in financial difficulty, help for carers and living at home and their cancer appointments. There are two services available through
nursing home supports. the Society:
– Travel2Care is a limited fund, made available by the National
Cancer Control Programme, for patients who are having
Irish Cancer Society services difficulty getting to and from their treatments while attending
Our Cancer Support Department provides a range of cancer support one of the national centres of excellence or their approved
services for people with cancer, at home and in hospital, including: satellite centres.
– Irish Cancer Society Volunteer Driver Service is for patients
■ Cancer Nurseline ■ Patient travel and financial support undergoing chemotherapy treatments who are having difficulty
■ Daffodil Centres services getting to and from their local appointments in our partner
■ Survivor Support ■ Night nursing hospitals.
■ Support in your area ■ Publications and website information To access either of these services please contact your hospital
healthcare professional.
■ Irish Cancer Society Night Nursing. We provide end-of-life care
■ Our Cancer Nurseline Freephone 1800 200 700. Call our Cancer
for cancer patients in their own home. We offer up to 10 nights of
Nurseline and speak to one of our cancer nurses for confidential
care for each patient. Our service allows patients to remain at
advice, support and information. You can also email us on
home for the last days of their lives surrounded by their families
[email protected] or visit our Online Community at
and loved ones. This is the only service of its kind in the Republic,
www.cancer.ie
providing palliative nursing care at night to cancer patients.
For the deaf community, our Cancer Nurseline is using the Sign
Language Interpreting Service (SLIS) using IRIS. Contact IRIS by text ■ Our publications and website information. We provide
087 980 6996 or email: [email protected] information on a range of topics
including cancer types,
■ Our Daffodil Centres. Visit our Daffodil Centres, located in thirteen treatments and side-effects,
hospitals nationwide. The centres are staffed by cancer nurses and
coping with cancer, children
trained volunteers who provide confidential advice, support and
and cancer, and financial
information to anyone concerned about or affected by cancer.
concerns. Visit our website
■ Our Survivor Support. Speak to someone who has been through a www.cancer.ie or call our Cancer
cancer diagnosis. Our trained volunteers are available to provide Nurseline for a free copy of our publications.
emotional and practical support to anyone going through or finished
with their treatment.
■ Support in your area. We work with cancer support groups and If you would like more information on any of our services, call
our Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or visit a Daffodil Centre.
centres across the country to ensure cancer patients have access to
confidential support including counselling. See page 42 for more
information.
42 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies Understanding cancer and complementary therapies 43

Local cancer support services Helpful books

The Irish Cancer Society works with cancer support services all over The Irish Cancer Society has a wide range of information on reducing
Ireland. They have a range of services for cancer patients and their your risk of cancer, different types of cancer, treatments, and coping.
families, during and after treatment, many of which are free. For For free copies call the Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700 or visit a
example: Daffodil Centre. You can also download or order the booklets on our
■ Professional counselling (the Irish Cancer Society funds up to 8 website: www.cancer.ie.
sessions of free counselling in many affiliated support services)
You may find the following helpful:
■ Support groups, often led by professionals like social workers,
counsellors, psychologists, or cancer nurses Treatment and side-effects
■ Special exercise programmes, like the Irish Cancer Society’s Understanding Chemotherapy
Strides for Life walking group programme
Understanding Radiotherapy
■ Stress management and relaxation techniques, such as
mindfulness and meditation Diet and Cancer
■ Complementary therapies like massage, reflexology and Coping with Fatigue
acupuncture
■ Specialist services such as prosthesis- or wig-fitting and manual Coping and emotions
lymph drainage
Understanding the Emotional Effects of Cancer
■ Mind and body sessions, for example, yoga and tai chi
■ Expressive therapies such as creative writing and art Lost for Words: How to Talk to Someone with Cancer
■ Free Irish Cancer Society publications and other high-quality, Who Can Ever Understand? Taking About Your Cancer
trustworthy information on a range of topics Talking to Children about Cancer: A Guide for Parents
Cancer support services usually have a drop-in service where you can A Time to Care: Caring for Someone Seriously Ill at Home
call in for a cup of tea and find out what’s available.
Caring for Someone with Cancer
You can call our Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700 to find
your nearest cancer support centre. Or see our online directory at
http://www.cancer.ie/support/support-in-your-area/directory
44 Understanding cancer and complementary therapies

Join the Irish Cancer Society team

If you want to make a difference to people affected by cancer, join
our team!
Support people affected by cancer
Reaching out directly to people with cancer is one of the most
rewarding ways to help:
■ Help people needing lifts to hospital by becoming a volunteer driver
■ Give one-on-one support to someone newly diagnosed with cancer
as part of our Survivor Support programme
■ Give information and support to people concerned about or affected
by cancer at one of our hospital-based Daffodil Centres
Share your experiences
Use your voice to bring reassurance to cancer patients and their
families, help people to connect with our services or inspire them to
get involved as a volunteer:
■ Share your cancer story
■ Tell people about our services
■ Describe what it’s like to organise or take part in a fundraising event
Raise money
All our services are funded by the public’s generosity:
■ Donate direct
■ Take part in one of our fundraising events or challenges
■ Organise your own event
Contact our Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700 if you want
to get involved!

Did you like this booklet?

We would love to hear your comments or suggestions.
Please email [email protected]

More information and support

If you would like more information or someone to talk to, now
or at any time in the future, please call our Cancer Nurseline on
1800 200 700.
Irish Cancer Society
43/45 Northumberland Road, Dublin 4

T: 01 231 0500
E: [email protected]
W: www.cancer.ie

Cancer Nurseline Freephone 1800 200 700

Email: [email protected]

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