Interdisciplinary Integrative Oncology Group-Based Program: Evaluation of Long-Term Effects on Resilience and Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients With Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Cancer often causes reduced resilience, quality of life (QoL) and poorer overall well-being. To mitigate these problems, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used among patients with cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of an interdisciplinary integrative oncology group-based program (IO-GP) on the resilience and use of CAM in patients with cancer. METHODS: This was a prospective, observational, single-center study. Resilience (RS-13), CAM usage (I-CAM-G), QoL (SF-12) and health-related lifestyle factor (nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption and physical exercise) data were collected for 70 patients who participated in a 10-week IO-GP between January 2019 and June 2022 due to cancer. The IO-GP is offered at the setting of a university hospital and is open to adult patients with cancer. It contains elements from mind-body medicine and positive psychology, as well as recommendations on healthy diet, exercise and CAM approaches. Patients who completed the IO-GP at least 12 months prior (1-4.5 years ago) were included in this study. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis and parametric and nonparametric tests to identify significant differences (P < .05). RESULTS: Resilience increased significantly ≥12 months after participation in the IO-GP (n = 44, P = .006, F = 8.274) and had a medium effect size (r = .410). The time since the IO-GP was completed ("12-24 months," "24-36 months," and ">36 months") showed no statistically significant interaction with changes in resilience (P = .226, F = 1.544). The most frequently used CAM modalities within the past 12 months were vitamins/minerals (85.7%), relaxation techniques (54.3%), herbs and plant medicine (41.1%), yoga (41.4%) and meditation (41.4%). The IO-GP was the most common source informing study participants about relaxation techniques (n = 24, 64.9%), meditation (n = 21, 72.4%) and taking vitamin D (n = 16, 40.0%). Significantly greater levels of resilience were found in those practicing meditation (P = .010, d = -.642) or visualization (P = .003, d = -.805) compared to non-practitioners. CONCLUSION: IO-GPs have the potential to empower patients with cancer to continue using CAM practices-especially from mind-body medicine-even 1 to 4.5 years after completing the program. Additionally, resilience levels increased. These findings provide notable insight into the long-term effects of integrative oncology interventions on resilience and the use of CAM, especially in patients with breast cancer.

Lifestyle and integrative oncology interventions for cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbances.

Fatigue, insomnia and sleep disturbances are common after cancer diagnosis, and have a negative impact on quality of life and function. This narrative review synthesised evidence on lifestyle and integrative oncology interventions for cancer-related fatigue, insomnia and sleep disturbances in cancer survivors. There is strong evidence in support of aerobic and strength exercise for the relief of cancer-related fatigue. Yoga, massage therapy, acupuncture, Tai Chi and qigong can also be recommended for cancer-related fatigue. The evidence on yoga, acupuncture and massage therapy for sleep disturbances in cancer is mixed, while exercise appears to have a modest favourable effect. There is insufficient evidence on nutrient supplements or dietary interventions for cancer-related fatigue or insomnia and other sleep disturbances after cancer. Beyond alleviating cancer-related fatigue and insomnia-related symptoms, integrative oncology and lifestyle interventions have potential to effect multiple other benefits, such as improvement in symptoms such as pain and menopausal symptoms. There is a need for well-designed randomised controlled trials of interventions, particularly in the areas of diet and nutrient supplements, and for implementation studies of interventions already supported by evidence.

Current evidence of integrative oncology modalities for managing adverse effects and survivorship issues among adolescents and young adult (AYA) cancer patients and survivors.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Symptom burden of cancer diagnosis and treatment has led adolescents and young adult cancer patients (AYAC) and survivors to seek different self-management strategies including integrative oncology (IO) modalities. IO holds great promise to improve survivorship issues in adolescents and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. This review aims to encompass the current evidence of IO modalities and to analyze the efficacy of IO for managing survivorship issues among AYA cancer patients and survivors. RECENT FINDINGS: Nineteen randomized controlled trials included in this review evaluated mind and body modalities including both physical and psychological (74%) and psychological only (26%) modalities. Most assessed IO modalities were physical activity (PA) (37%) and structured exercise (10%). Most effective IO modalities found were PA, massage, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and light therapy for treating AYA symptom burden. The Cochrane risk of bias (RoB-2) concluded 21% studies had high risk, 58% possessed some concerns and 21% had low risk. SUMMARY: Although evidence has shown that a number of IO modalities may improve survivorship among AYA cancer survivors, more rigorous study designs are needed in order for these modalities to be routinely recommended for use in clinical practice.

Supportive cancer care: is integrative oncology the future?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Nearly half of cancer patients use complementary therapies alongside the conventional cancer treatment. This clinical reality is a challenge for the medical team mainly to guarantee patient's safety. The evolution from Supportive Care to Integrative oncology is taking shape. RECENT FINDINGS: Integrative oncology, a new field in cancer care, combines conventional supportive care and validated complementary approaches. The first part of this review is to highlight the process of validation of one of the most popular complementary medicines among European cancer patients: homeopathy. It seems to be a well tolerated and useful complementary approach in integrative cancer care. The second part shows through the example of stage IV lung cancer the transition from conventional supportive care to integrative oncology with a benefit for their quality of life and survival. SUMMARY: The future of supportive cancer care seems to lead towards a move from coexistence of conventional care and complementary approaches to a combination of both in integrative oncology. This would require new skills among caregivers, specific academic training and adapted studies. Further research is needed to highlight the benefits in the specific field of integrative cancer care.

Integrative oncology for patients with lung cancer: A prospective pragmatic controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Complementary medicine and integrative oncology modalities (IOM) have been included in the clinical practice guidelines of the American College of Chest Physicians in the treatments of patients with lung cancer. The present study examined the impact of a patient-tailored IOM treatment program on quality of life (QoL)-related concerns among patients with non-small and small lung cancer undergoing active oncology treatment. METHODS: This controlled study was pragmatic and prospective assessing the adherence among patients referred by their oncology healthcare provider to an integrative physician consultation, followed by 6 weekly IOM treatments addressing QoL-related concerns. High adherence to integrative care (high-AIC, vs. low-AIC) was defined as attending ≥4 IOM sessions. Symptoms were assessed using the ESAS (Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale), EORTC QLQ-C30 (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire), and MYCAW (Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing) tools, at baseline and 6 weeks. RESULTS: Of 153 patients, 74 (48 %) were high-AIC, with baseline demographic, cancer-and QoL-related characteristics similar to those of low-AIC patients. At 6 weeks, high-AIC patients reported greater improvement on MYCAW well-being (p = 0.036), with within-group improvement observed for EORTC pain (p = 0.021) and emotional functioning (p = 0.041); and for ESAS depression (p = 0.005), with borderline significance for EORTC sleep (p = 0.06). CONCLUSION: High adherence to a 6-week IOM program within supportive/palliative care for patients with lung cancer was found to alleviate pain and emotional concerns, improving overall QoL. Further research is needed to confirm the findings in real-life IOM practice for patients with lung cancer.

Integrative Therapies in Cancer Care: An Update on the Guidelines.

INTRODUCTION: ASCO and the Society for Integrative Oncology have collaborated to develop guidelines for the application of integrative approaches in the management of anxiety, depression, fatigue and use of cannabinoids and cannabis in patients with cancer. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to improve outcomes and quality of life by enhancing conventional cancer treatment with integrative modalities. METHODS: All studies that informed the guideline recommendations were reviewed by an Expert Panel which was made up of a patient advocate, an ASCO methodologist, oncology providers, and integrative medicine experts. Panel members reviewed each trial for quality of evidence, determined a grade quality assessment label, and concluded strength of recommendations. RESULTS: Strong recommendations for management of cancer fatigue during treatment were given to both in-person or web-based mindfulness-based stress reduction, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and tai chi or qigong. Strong recommendations for management of cancer fatigue after cancer treatment were given to mindfulness-based programs. Clinicians should recommend against using cannabis or cannabinoids as a cancer-directed treatment unless within the context of a clinical trial. The recommended modalities for managing anxiety included Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs), yoga, hypnosis, relaxation therapies, music therapy, reflexology, acupuncture, tai chi, and lavender essential oils. The strongest recommendation in the guideline is that MBIs should be offered to people with cancer, both during active treatment and post-treatment, to address depression. CONCLUSION: The evidence for integrative interventions in cancer care is growing, with research now supporting benefits of integrative interventions across the cancer care continuum.

Management of Fatigue in Adult Survivors of Cancer: ASCO-Society for Integrative Oncology Guideline Update.

PURPOSE: To update the ASCO guideline on the management of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in adult survivors of cancer. METHODS: A multidisciplinary panel of medical oncology, geriatric oncology, internal medicine, psychology, psychiatry, exercise oncology, integrative medicine, behavioral oncology, nursing, and advocacy experts was convened. Guideline development involved a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2013-2023. RESULTS: The evidence base consisted of 113 RCTs. Exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based programs led to improvements in CRF both during and after the completion of cancer treatment. Tai chi, qigong, and American ginseng showed benefits during treatment, whereas yoga, acupressure, and moxibustion helped to manage CRF after completion of treatment. Use of other dietary supplements did not improve CRF during or after cancer treatment. In patients at the end of life, CBT and corticosteroids showed benefits. Certainty and quality of evidence were low to moderate for CRF management interventions. RECOMMENDATIONS: Clinicians should recommend exercise, CBT, mindfulness-based programs, and tai chi or qigong to reduce the severity of fatigue during cancer treatment. Psychoeducation and American ginseng may be recommended in adults undergoing cancer treatment. For survivors after completion of treatment, clinicians should recommend exercise, CBT, and mindfulness-based programs; in particular, CBT and mindfulness-based programs have shown efficacy for managing moderate to severe fatigue after treatment. Yoga, acupressure, and moxibustion may also be recommended. Patients at the end of life may be offered CBT and corticosteroids. Clinicians should not recommend L-carnitine, antidepressants, wakefulness agents, or routinely recommend psychostimulants to manage symptoms of CRF. There is insufficient evidence to make recommendations for or against other psychosocial, integrative, or pharmacological interventions for the management of fatigue.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/survivorship-guidelines.

Integrative Nursing Interventions for Cancer-Related Symptoms in Oncology Inpatients: Results of a Descriptive Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Integrative nursing (IN) is an essential component of integrative medicine and integrative oncology. IN includes a range of external naturopathic, integrative nursing interventions, such as compresses, embrocation, and foot/hand baths, aimed at alleviating symptoms and side effects of conventional treatment. The project IMPLEMENT-UKU ("Implementation of IN at the University Hospital Ulm") was accompanied by a descriptive pilot study on the use of IN interventions on cancer-related symptoms in oncology inpatients, the characterization of these patients and the evaluation of the impact. METHODS: A single-arm study was conducted using a paper-based questionnaire administered before the IN interventions (t0) and 24 hours after the IN interventions (t1). Topics included sociodemographic data, symptoms, quality of life, health status, psychological burden, attitudes, and experience and satisfaction with the IN interventions. Analyses were descriptive using absolute and relative frequencies. RESULTS: During the 6-month study period out of 66 patients recommended for IN consultation by medical and nursing staff on 2 wards, 62 (93.9%) accepted the offer. Of those patients who received IN, 21 patients (33.9%) participated in the study. The number of IN interventions received per patient ranged from 1 to 3 during the 24-hour survey period. And a total of 36 IN interventions were performed: The most treated body region was the feet/legs (50.0%), followed by the back (25.0%), using oils such as solum oil (41.7%) and lavender oil (13.9%). Embrocation (77.8%) was the predominant type of IN intervention. For patients, the mean FACIT-F score was 29.2 ± 12.5. The mean PHQ-4 score was 3.0 ± 1.9. Regarding sleep quality in the last 4 weeks, 13 participants (61.9%) described it as rather or very poor. Satisfaction with the IN was high, with a large proportion of participants evaluating the IN interventions very positively. CONCLUSION: The study's findings suggest that there is a great need for IN among oncology inpatients. These patients are open to and interested in IN interventions and evaluate them positively. IN provides a promising opportunity to provide non-pharmacological support to inpatients. The integration of IN in conventional oncology care settings may enhance patient-centered care and contribute to improved patient wellbeing.

The Potential of Integrative Cancer Treatment Using Melatonin and the Challenge of Heterogeneity in Population-Based Studies: A Case Report of Colon Cancer and a Literature Review.

Melatonin is a multifunctional hormone regulator that maintains homeostasis through circadian rhythms, and desynchronization of these rhythms can lead to gastrointestinal disorders and increase the risk of cancer. Preliminary clinical studies have shown that exogenous melatonin alleviates the harmful effects of anticancer therapy and improves quality of life, but the results are still inconclusive due to the heterogeneity of the studies. A personalized approach to testing clinical parameters and response to integrative treatment with nontoxic and bioavailable melatonin in patient-centered N-of-1 studies deserves greater attention. This clinical case of colon cancer analyzes and discusses the tumor pathology, the adverse effects of chemotherapy, and the dynamics of markers of inflammation (NLR, LMR, and PLR ratios), tumors (CEA, CA 19-9, and PSA), and hemostasis (D-dimer and activated partial thromboplastin time). The patient took melatonin during and after chemotherapy, nutrients (zinc, selenium, vitamin D, green tea, and taxifolin), and aspirin after chemotherapy. The patient's PSA levels decreased during CT combined with melatonin (19 mg/day), and melatonin normalized inflammatory markers and alleviated symptoms of polyneuropathy but did not help with thrombocytopenia. The results are analyzed and discussed in the context of the literature on oncostatic and systemic effects, alleviating therapy-mediated adverse effects, association with survival, and N-of-1 studies.

Identifying Factors Associated With Disparities in Access to Integrative Oncology Program.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES: Cancer centers are increasingly providing complementary medicine as part of an emerging discipline termed 'integrative oncology' (IO). The present study explored factors associated with disparities in referral and adherence to a freely-provided IO program. METHODS: The databases of three oncology centers in northern Israel were searched retrospectively for chemotherapy-treated oncology patients eligible for referral by their oncology healthcare professionals to an integrative physician (IP) consultation. Demographic and cancer-related variables associated with the referral, and attendance by patients at the consultation were identified, as was adherence to the 6-week IO treatment program (high adherence, attending ≥4 IO treatment sessions; low adherence, 0-3 sessions). RESULTS: Of 4988 eligible patients, 1694 (34%) were referred to the IP consultation, with 1331 (78.6%) attending the consultation of which 766 (57.6%) were adherent to IO treatments. Multivariate analysis revealed lower referral rates among patients speaking primarily Arabic and Russian vs. Hebrew (OR = 3.0, 95% CI = 2.0-4.6, P < 0.0001); males vs. females (OR = 1.94, CI = 1.3-2.9, P = 0.001); those not reporting emotional distress (OR = 1.5, CI = 1.02-2.16, P = 0.037); and older age (OR = 1.04, CI = 1.03-1.06, P < 0.0001). Arabic and Russian-speaking patients were less likely to adhere to IO treatments (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.32-0.83, P = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Patients' ethno-national origin and immigration status (primary language, Arabic and Russian), male gender and older age were associated with lower rates of referral to and attendance of the IP consultation, with reduced adherence to weekly IO treatments. These findings require further study to identify barriers toward diversity, equity and inclusion in IO care, increasing awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the benefits of these services for improving patient wellbeing.

Establishing an Integrative Oncology Service: Essential Aspects of Program Development.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Over the last 2 decades, integrative oncology (IO) has seen exponential growth within cancer care. It aims to combine evidence-based complementary therapies with conventional treatments to improve the well-being and quality of life for individuals dealing with cancer. The proliferation of integrative medicine programs in major cancer centers globally reflects varying approaches shaped by cultural, demographic, and resource-based factors. RECENT FINDINGS: Drawing upon the expertise of leaders in IO from the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO) Clinical Practice Committee, this manuscript serves as a practical guide for establishing an IO practice. Collating insights from diverse professionals, including oncologists, integrative oncologists, supportive care physicians, researchers, and clinicians, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for initiating and advancing IO services. The primary objective is to bridge the gap between conventional cancer care and complementary therapies, fostering a patient-centric approach to address the multifaceted challenges encountered by individuals with cancer. This paper delineates several key sections elucidating different aspects of IO practice. It delves into the core components necessary for an IO service's foundation, outlines the initial medical consultation process, and presents crucial tools essential for successful consultations. By consolidating insights and expertise, this manuscript seeks to facilitate the integration of IO into mainstream cancer care, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and experiences.

Implementation of Virtual Integrative Oncology Shared Medical Appointment Series (VIOSMAS) Within Mixed Diagnosis Population.

BACKGROUND: Integrative oncology [IO] is sought-after by patients, endorsed by clinical guidelines, and valued within National Cancer Institute Centers. Shared Medical Appointments [SMA] leverage health education and social connection to deliver enhanced patient experience, population health, cost-reduction, and clinician well-being. Integrative Oncology Shared Medical Appointments increase access to integrative medicine but delivering these services via telehealth have not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE: We created, and pilot tested a Virtual Integrative Oncology Shared Medical Appointment Series (VIOSMAS) to assess its feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy at an urban academic teaching hospital. METHODS: The 7-session hour-long Living Well with and after Cancer series included didactics, multi-disciplinary experiential sessions, and group discussion. Topics included (1) Introduction, (2) Herbs/Botanicals/Fungi, (3) Mindful Movement, (4) Acupuncture, (5) Narratives and Nature, (6) Diet and Culinary Medicine, and (7) Vitamins/Supplements. Virtual visits via telehealth were offered to enhance patient participation during the pandemic. Outcome measures included recruitment, retention, pre/post-series patient survey and qualitative clinician feedback. RESULTS: Between 9/2021 and 4/2023, 72 unique patients were recruited to 5 cohorts and had a total of 332 VIOSMAS visits. A total of 50 patients (69%) attended 4 or more of the 7-session series; 60 (83% were women); patients ranged in age from 28 to 93 years (median 66); 36 (50%) lived outside the city center; the most common cancer diagnoses were breast, lymphoma, and lung cancer. Patients were from diverse demographics. Pre-program, patients reported desiring assistance in addressing diverse symptoms including fatigue, insomnia, pain, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Post-series, patients reported that the VIOSMAS addressed their goals and symptoms; they also reported incorporating recommended lifestyle changes in diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management; they were satisfied with the number of sessions and telehealth format. The participating clinicians reported high levels of satisfaction with VIOSMAS. Revenue to the institution from VIOSMAS exceeded the revenue potential of equivalent time spent for individual visits while supporting extended physician-patient contact. CONCLUSION: VIOSMAS is feasible for patients and clinicians, addresses patients' symptoms and questions about lifestyle and complementary therapies, and generates more revenue than individual visits. Larger implementation trials with appropriate comparison groups are recommended.

Integrative Oncology Approaches to Reduce Recurrence of Disease and Improve Survival.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: After a cancer diagnosis, patients ask what they can do in addition to the recommended treatments to increase their survival. Many turn to integrative medicine modalities and lifestyle changes to improve their chances of survival. Numerous studies have demonstrated that lifestyle changes can significantly improve survival rates for cancer patients. Less support exists for the use of natural products or supplements to improve cancer survival. In this manuscript, we review key findings and evidence in the areas of healthy eating habits, physical activity, stress management and social support, and sleep quality, as well as natural products and supplements as they relate to the cancer recurrence and survival. RECENT FINDINGS: While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the associations between lifestyle changes and cancer survival, findings suggest that lifestyle modifications in the areas of diet, physical activity, stress management and social support, and sleep quality improve clinical cancer outcomes. This is especially true for programs that modify more than one lifestyle habit. To date, outside of supplementing with vitamin D to maintain adequate levels, conflicting conclusion within the research remain regarding the efficacy of using natural products or supplement to improve cancer recurrence of disease or cancer survival. A call for further research is warranted. Lifestyle screening and counseling should be incorporated into cancer treatment plans to help improve patient outcomes. While the scientific community strives for the pursuit of high-quality research on natural products to enhance cancer survival, transparency, dialogue, and psychological safety between patients and clinicians must continue to be emphasized. Proactive inquiry by clinicians regarding patients' supplement use will allow for an informed discussion of the benefits and risks of natural products and supplements, as well as a re-emphasis of the evidence supporting diet and other lifestyle habits to increase survival.

Integrative Oncology Approaches to Supporting Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment of Solid Tumours.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The goal of this review was to examine the role and practical applications of integrative oncology strategies in supporting immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment of adult solid tumours. RECENT FINDINGS: Beyond tumour-intrinsic factors, several patient-associated factors affect ICI response, including germline genetics, systemic inflammation, the gut microbiota, and diet. Current promising supportive interventions include a Mediterranean-style diet with over 20 g of fibre, regular exercise, use of live biotherapeutics, minimisation of PPI and antibiotic use, and ensuring vitamin D repletion, with many other integrative oncology approaches under study. Caution around medical cannabis use in patients on ICIs is advised due to previously documented adverse impact on overall survival, while VAE (Viscum album extract) therapy studies have not highlighted any safety concerns so far. With expanding ICI use, it is important to investigate and apply low-cost integrative oncology strategies to support better treatment outcomes and minimise adverse events. Further research may lead to pre-treatment assessment of both tumour and patient-associated biomarkers and personalised multimodal prehabilitation care plans, as well as on-treatment support with targeted nutrition, physical activity, and supplementation regimes, including both systemic inflammation and gut microbiome modulating strategies. Given the emerging understanding of chronic stress impact on ICI treatment outcomes, mind-body approaches require further investigation.

Care Management in Scientific Production in Integrative Oncology in Latin America: An Integrative Review / La gestión de la atención en la producción científica de la oncología integrativa en Latinoamérica: una revisión integradora / Gestão do cuidado na produção científica em oncologia integrativa na América Latina: revisão integrativa

Introducción: la inclusión de las medicinas tradicionales, complementarias e integrativas en los sistemas nacionales de salud es un punto de discusión en el contexto mundial. En este artículo, el tema se centra en la oncología en Latinoamérica. Objetivo: analizar las dimensiones de la gestión de la salud contempladas en la producción científica sobre oncología integrativa en Latinoamérica. Materiales y método: se trata de una revisión bibliográfica integrativa en las bases de datos Lilacs, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMed y Embase, cuya pregunta orientadora se elaboró de acuerdo con las recomendaciones de The PRISMA 2020 Statement. La búsqueda se realizó asociando términos libres relacionados con los descriptores "oncología integrativa", "prácticas complementarias e integrativas", "atención a la salud", "gestión de la atención" y "países que conforman América Latina". Se interpretaron los datos desde la perspectiva conceptual de las dimensiones de la gestión de la atención en salud. Resultados: el proceso de selección de estudios resultó en la identificación de 206 producciones. La muestra final consistió en ocho artículos disponibles en línea, en su totalidad, publicados entre 2017 y 2022, en portugués, español o inglés. Los artículos se desarrollaron en Brasil (n = 4), así como en Chile, Colombia, Perú y Uruguay (n = 1, respectivamente). Hubo un predominio de la dimensión individual de la gestión de la atención como foco de los estudios analizados. Las dimensiones "profesional", "familiar", "social" y "organizacional" se presentaron en la discusión de los resultados. Conclusiones: a pesar de la falta de publicaciones, el análisis de la interdependencia entre las dimensiones indica la complejidad del proceso de gestión para la integración de la medicina tradicional, complementaria e integrativa en la atención oncológica en Latinoamérica, lo que sugiere una epistemología en proceso de construcción.

Introdução: a inserção das medicinas tradicionais, complementares e integrativas nos sistemas nacionais de saúde é ponto de discussão no contexto global. Neste artigo, focaliza-se a temática no âmbito da oncologia na América Latina. Objetivo: analisar as dimensões da gestão no cuidado em saúde contempladas na produção científica em oncologia integrativa na América Latina. Materiais e método: trata-se de revisão integrativa da literatura nas bases de dados Lilacs, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMED e Embase, cuja questão orientadora foi elaborada conforme recomendações do The PRISMA 2020 Statement. A busca ocorreu por associação de termos livres relacionados aos descritores "oncologia integrativa", "práticas complementares e integrativas", "atenção à saúde", "gestão do cuidado" e "países que integram a América Latina". Os dados foram interpretados na perspectiva conceitual das dimensões da gestão do cuidado em saúde. Resultados: o processo de seleção dos estudos resultou na identificação de 206 produções. A amostra final foi composta de de oito artigos disponíveis on-line, na íntegra, publicados entre 2017 e 2022, em português, espanhol ou inglês. Os artigos foram desenvolvidos no Brasil (n = 4), no Chile, na Colômbia, no Peru e no Uruguai (n = 1, respectivamente). Evidenciou-se predomínio da dimensão individual da gestão do cuidado como enfoque dos estudos analisados. As dimensões "profissional", "familiar", "societária" e "organizacional" se apresentaram na discussão dos resultados. Conclusões: apesar da insuficiência de publicações, a análise da interdependência entre as dimensões indica a complexidade do processo de gestão para a integração da medicina tradicional, complementar e integrativa na atenção oncológica na América Latina, o que sugere uma epistemologia em processo de construção.

Introduction: Including traditional, complementary and integrative medicines in national health systems is a point of discussion worldwide. This article focuses on the theme within the scope of oncology in Latin America. Objective: To analyze the health care management dimensions included in scientific production in integrative oncology in Latin America. Materials and method: This is an integrative literature review carried out in the LILACS, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMed and Embase databases, whose guiding question was prepared according to The PRISMA 2020 Statement recommendations. The search occurred by the association of free terms related to the descriptors "Integrative Oncology," "Complementary Therapies," "Health Care," "Care Management," and "Countries That Make Up Latin America". Data were interpreted from the conceptual perspective of health care management dimensions. Results: The study selection process identified 206 studies. The final sample was made up of eight articles available online in full, published between 2017 and 2022 in Portuguese, Spanish or English. Articles were developed in Brazil (n = 4), Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay (n = 1, respectively). There was a predominance of the individual health care management dimension as the focus of analyzed studies. The "professional," "family," "societal," and "organizational" dimensions were presented in the discussion of results. Conclusions: Despite the insufficiency of studies, analysis of interdependence between dimensions indicates the complexity of the management process for integrating traditional, complementary and integrative medicine in oncological care in Latin America, which suggests an epistemology in the construction process.

La cardio-oncología como una visión multidisciplinaria en el enfoque y tratamiento de la patología oncológica contemporánea / Cardio-oncology as a multidisciplinary vision in approaching and treating contemporary oncological pathology

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, y las enfermedades oncológicas están aumentando en prevalencia. Los medicamentos oncológicos pueden tener efectos secundarios cardiovasculares, y la cardiooncología es una subespecialidad de la cardiología que se ocupa de la prevención y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer. Puntos importantes del editorial: Las antraciclinas son un grupo de medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad, lo que puede causar una variedad de síntomas, incluyendo fatiga, disnea, edema y dolor en torácico. En casos graves, la cardiotoxicidad puede provocar insuficiencia cardíaca. Otros medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad incluyen los anticuerpos anti-HER2, el fluorouracilo y la gemcitabina. Los inhibidores de la tirosinkinasa y los inhibidores del factor de crecimiento derivado del endotelio también pueden causar problemas cardiovasculares, como hipertensión, formación de coágulos sanguíneos y arritmia. Los pacientes con cáncer también tienen un mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones tromboembólicas venosas en miembros inferiores. Conclusión: El diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer son esenciales para mejorar la supervivencia de los pacientes con cáncer. La cardiooncología es una especialidad emergente y multidisciplinaria que requiere la participación de oncólogos, hematólogos, radiooncólogos y cardiólogos. El equipo de cardiooncología trabaja en conjunto para evaluar el riesgo cardiovascular de los pacientes con cáncer, prevenir las complicaciones cardiovasculares y tratar las complicaciones cardiovasculares que ocurren.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world, and oncological diseases are increasing in prevalence. Cancer drugs can have cardiovascular side effects, and cardio-oncology is a subspecialty of cardiology concerned with preventing and treating cardiovascular complications related to cancer. Important points from the editorial: Anthracyclines are a group of cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity, which can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, dyspnea, edema, and chest pain. In severe cases, cardiotoxicity can lead to heart failure. Other cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity include anti-HER2 antibodies, fluorouracil, and gemcitabine. Tyrosine kinase and endothelium-derived growth factor inhibitors can also cause cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, blood clot formation, and arrhythmia. Cancer patients are also at increased risk of developing lower limb venous thromboembolic complications. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer-related cardiovascular complications are essential to improve the survival of cancer patients. Cardio-oncology is an emerging, multidisciplinary specialty that requires the participation of oncologists, hematologists, radiation oncologists, and cardiologists. The cardio-oncology team works together to assess cardiovascular risk in cancer patients, prevent cardiovascular complications, and treat cardiovascular complications that do occur.

Transversal Perspectives of Integrative Oncology Care in Gastric and Lobular Breast Cancer.

The occurrence of gastric cancer has been associated with an increased risk of lobular breast tumors in a subset of patients harboring selected germline mutations. Among all, the germline alteration of the gene coding for E-Cadherin (CDH1) was associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer diffuse-histotype and lobular breast cancer. However, the risk assessment of breast neoplasms and the role of multiple prophylactic procedures in these patients has never been systematically addressed. In addition, the performance of the common screening procedures for lobular breast cancer like mammography is suboptimal. Therefore, recalling the need for a better articulation of the patient-centered strategies of surveillance for individuals with germline CDH1 and other similar alterations, to offer comprehensive approaches for prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment. Accordingly, this chapter aims to discuss the value and the role of integrated oncological care in the era of oncology sub-specializations. Additionally, it sheds light on how the harmonization across the health providers can enhance patient care in this setting.

Non-pharmacological therapies for cancer patients in Portugal and Brazil: an experience report / Terapias no farmacológicas para pacientes con cáncer en Portugal y Brasil: informe de experiencia / Terapias não farmacológicas para pacientes com câncer em Portugal e no Brasil: relato de experiência

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the experience of nurses from a center in Portugal and two in Brazil regarding the use of non-pharmacological therapies in cancer patients. Method: This is a professional experience report. Results: In the Portuguese institution, a group of nurses has been performing massage therapy, reflexology, postural teaching, thermotherapy, relaxation, guided imagery, Reiki, music therapy, aromatherapy, among others, for 17 years, with significant results in pain and vital signs with satisfactory perceptions. In Brazil, the clinical application is incipient, clinical studies with auriculotherapy, relaxation with guided imagery and floral therapy are taking place, with significant results for physical symptoms, anxiety, and quality of life improvement. Conclusion: In both countries, nurses have made efforts to implement non-pharmacological therapies. While in the Portuguese reality they have been formally institutionalized in care, in Brazil the therapies take place with voluntary work and through intervention research. This report can encourage the translation of autonomous practice to clinical studies for proposing evidence of therapies in Integrative Oncology.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir la experiencia de enfermeros de un centro de Portugal y dos de Brasil con respecto al uso de terapias no farmacológicas en pacientes oncológicos. Método: Informe de experiencia profesional. Resultados: En la institución portuguesa, desde hace 17 años, un grupo de enfermeros realiza masajes terapéuticos, reflexología, enseñanza postural, termoterapia, relajación, imaginería guiada, Reiki, musicoterapia, aromaterapia, entre otros, con resultados significativos en dolor, signos vitales y con percepciones satisfactorias. En Brasil, la aplicación clínica es incipiente, se están realizando estudios clínicos con auriculoterapia, relajación con imágenes guiadas y terapia floral, con resultados significativos para los síntomas físicos, la ansiedad y la calidad de vida. Conclusión: en ambos países, los enfermeros han hecho esfuerzos para implementar terapias no farmacológicas. Mientras que en la realidad portuguesa han sido formalmente institucionalizados en el cuidado, en Brasil las terapias ocurren de forma voluntaria y por medio de investigación de intervención. Este informe puede incentivar la translación de la práctica autónoma a estudios clínicos para proponer evidencias de las terapias en Oncología Integrativa.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a experiência dos enfermeiros de um centro em Portugal e dois no Brasil sobre o uso das terapias não farmacológicas em pacientes com câncer. Método: Trata-se de um relato de experiência profissional. Resultados: Na instituição portuguesa, há 17 anos um grupo de enfermeiros vem realizando massagem terapêutica, reflexologia, ensinos posturais, termoterapia, relaxamento, imaginação guiada, Reiki, musicoterapia, aromaterapia, entre outras, com resultados significativos na dor, nos sinais vitais e com percepções satisfatórias. Na brasileira, a aplicação clínica é incipiente, ocorrem estudos clínicos com auriculoterapia, relaxamento com imagem guiada e terapia floral, com resultados significativos para sintomas físicos, ansiedade e qualidade de vida. Conclusão: Em ambos os países, os enfermeiros têm empreendido esforços para implementar as terapias não farmacológicas. Enquanto na realidade portuguesa elas têm sido formalmente institucionalizadas no cuidado, na brasileira as terapias ocorrem de forma voluntária e por meio de pesquisas de intervenção. Esse relato pode fomentar a translação da prática autônoma aos estudos clínicos para a proposição de evidências das terapias na Oncologia Integrativa.

Cuidado ao Paciente Oncológico na Perspectiva da Oncologia Integrativa / Care for Cancer Patients from the Perspective of Integrative Oncology / Atención al Paciente Oncológico desde la Perspectiva de la Oncología Integrativa

Introdução: A oncologia integrativa é um campo recente e promissor que visa ao cuidado integral centrado no paciente, com uma abordagem baseada em evidências. Objetivo: Verificar o conhecimento científico produzido sobre a oncologia integrativa na atenção hospitalar. Método: Revisão integrativa com buscas nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS, SciELO e MOSAICO, realizadas de fevereiro a março de 2022. A partir dos critérios de elegibilidade (estudos referentes ao tema publicados de 2000 a 2022, disponíveis na íntegra no acesso público, nos idiomas inglês, português e espanhol), foram selecionados sete artigos, analisados de acordo com a modalidade temática. Resultados: Os artigos elegíveis foram publicados entre 2018 e 2021, com destaque para a produção europeia, que corresponde a quatro (57,14%) artigos. O conteúdo dos estudos foi organizado em dois temas: a implementação de cuidados de oncologia integrativa e o acesso equitativo à oncologia integrativa e outros desafios. Foi observado que a oncologia integrativa tem sido praticada em diferentes cenários, com variadas ações realizadas, e tem como desafio central a ampliação do acesso ao usuário, por meio do desenvolvimento de diretrizes baseadas em evidências e da implementação de políticas de financiamento e qualificação profissional. Conclusão: O conhecimento científico produzido aponta que a implementação de cuidados de oncologia integrativa na atenção hospitalar ainda é limitada, com desafios relacionados ao acesso equitativo, ao financiamento, à gestão e à qualificação dos profissionais de saúde

Introduction: Integrative oncology is a recent and promising field, which aims a patient-centered comprehensive care, within an evidence-based approach. Objective: To investigate the scientific knowledge produced on integrative oncology in hospital care. Method: Integrative review with searches in PubMed, LILACS, SciELO and MOSAICO databases carried out from February to March 2022. Based in the eligibility criteria (studies related to the subject published from 2000 to 2022, available in full by public access, in English, Portuguese and Spanish) seven articles were selected and analyzed according to the thematic modality. Results: The eligible articles were published between 2018 and 2021, with emphasis on European production, which corresponds to four (57.14%) articles. The content of the studies was organized in two themes, namely: the implementation of integrative oncology care and the equitable access to integrative oncology and other challenges. It has been observed that integrative oncology has been practiced in different scenarios, with variable actions taken, and its central challenge is to expand the user access, through the development of evidence-based guidelines and the implementation of funding and professional qualification policies. Conclusion: The scientific knowledge produced indicates that the implementation of integrative oncology care in hospital attention is still limited, with challenges related to equitable access, funding, management and qualification of health professionals

Introducción: La oncología integrativa es un campo reciente y prometedor, que apunta a la atención integral centrada en el paciente, en un enfoque basado en la evidencia. Objetivo: Verificar el conocimiento científico producido sobre oncología integrativa en la atención hospitalaria. Método: Revisión integrativa con búsquedas en las bases de datos PubMed, LILACS, SciELO y MOSAICO, realizada de febrero a marzo de 2022. A partir de los criterios de elegibilidad (estudios relacionados con el tema publicados entre 2000 y 2022, disponibles en su totalidad para acceso público, en inglés, portugués y español) fueron seleccionados siete artículos, analizados según la modalidad temática. Resultados: Los artículos elegidos fueron publicados entre 2018 y 2021, con énfasis en la producción europea, lo que corresponde a cuatro (57,14%) artículos. El contenido de los estudios se organizó en dos temas, a saber: la implementación de la atención oncológica integradora y el acceso equitativo a la oncología integradora y otros desafíos. Se ha observado que la oncología integrativa se ha practicado en diferentes escenarios, con acciones variables, y su desafío central es ampliar el acceso de los usuarios, a través del desarrollo de pautas basadas en evidencia y la implementación de políticas de financiamiento y calificación profesional. Conclusión: El conocimiento científico producido apunta que la implementación de la atención oncológica integrativa en la atención hospitalaria aún es limitada, con desafíos relacionados con el acceso equitativo, el financiamiento, la gestión y la calificación de los profesionales de la salud