The Role of


Naturopathic Doctors in Integrative Oncology


By Renee Lang, ND, FABNO, MPH C


ancer causes more deaths each year in the U.S. than any other diagnosis besides heart disease (cancer.org). In


Maine and for women and men aged 45- 64, it’s the leading cause of death each year. Approximately 38% of the U.S. population will be diagnosed with cancer at some time in their lifetime. Cancer affects us all, in one way or another.


What is Integrative Oncology? Per Stephen Sagar, MD in 2006, “Inte-


grative oncology combines the discipline of modern science with the wisdom of tra- ditional healing. It is an evolving evidence- based specialty that uses complementary therapies in concert with medical treatment to enhance its effi cacy, improve symptom control, alleviate patient distress, and reduce suffering.” In my opinion, integrative oncology incorporates CAM (complemen- tary and alternative medicine) with conven- tional treatments, utilizing evidence-based therapies, in a safe and effective manner.


Conventional cancer treatment falls


short when it comes to addressing a patient’s quality of life throughout aggres- sive treatments. Medical management of treatment side effects and nutritional guidance and support is lacking. The treat- ments recommended to address side effects often come with additional side effects or intolerances. Patients increasingly seek out alternative and complementary medicine options to help manage their cancer diag- nosis and treatment.


Most conventional medical providers


lack the time and/or training required to effectively guide curious patients seeking complementary therapies. Although natural therapies are generally low-risk or safe, in- teractions with cancer treatment may occur. Indiscriminate and unguided use of natural therapies may result in unintended conse- quences or harm.


Naturopathic Doctors to the Rescue Licensed naturopathic doctors (ND)


receive training in both modern science and natural medicine from accredited naturo- pathic medical schools. They emerge well-


20 ELM® Maine - September/October 2019


versed in the use of botanical medicine, homeopathy, diet/nutrition, nutraceuticals/ supplements, psycho-immunology and other complementary and alternative medi- cal therapies and techniques. NDs special- izing in naturopathic oncology understand standard cancer treatments employed by medical oncologists and how best to work with them in an integrative model of care. They provide guidance on the safe and ef- fective use of natural therapies.


Since 2006, the American Board of Na- turopathic Oncology has conferred board- certifi cation in naturopathic oncology to licensed naturopathic doctors. FABNO (Fel- low of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology) certifi cation requires additional training and experience in integrative on- cology as well as successful completion of a written exam. Eligible candidates must have at least fi ve years of experience practicing as a naturopathic doctor or have completed a two-year oncology residency. Since 2006, 100 NDs have attained FABNO status in the U.S. and Canada, demon- strating experience and specialization in integrative oncology.


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