A new study led by the University of California, Irvine has found that healthcare professionals around the world are increasingly using integrative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, exercise, massage, and nutrition counseling to help cancer patients manage side effects of treatment. The research, published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, surveyed more than 300 oncology professionals from the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer and the Society for Integrative Oncology across eight regions.
The survey revealed that about 70 percent of respondents had used or recommended at least one integrative approach to address symptoms like pain, fatigue, anxiety, and gastrointestinal distress in cancer patients. However, nearly 80 percent indicated these services remain underused globally. Respondents identified cost, lack of insurance coverage, and limited training opportunities as major barriers to access—issues especially pronounced in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Most patients continue to pay out-of-pocket for these services. North America was noted as having the most available training opportunities.
Alexandre Chan, professor and founding chair of the Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice at UC Irvine’s School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences led the research with significant contributions from Pharm.D. candidate Reem Nasr.
“We found that cancer professionals across the globe value these approaches not as alternatives but as essential modalities to work alongside conventional cancer care,” Chan said. “At the same time, the inequities we identified show that too many patients still face barriers to getting the support they need to heal not only physically but emotionally and spiritually.”
The study focused on symptom management during active treatment or after therapy through integrated methods. It examined how supportive care practices can assist patients in dealing with physical and psychological challenges that often persist after cancer treatment ends.
By collecting data from clinicians in eight regions through professional organizations dedicated to supportive care and integrative oncology, researchers created a framework for improving patient-centered care worldwide. The authors recommend expanding training programs for medical professionals so future clinicians can safely implement integrative practices.
The findings suggest there are opportunities for healthcare organizations and policymakers to develop funding mechanisms and policy frameworks aimed at making evidence-based supportive care accessible for all cancer patients.
UC Irvine is a member of the Association of American Universities and ranks among the nation’s top public universities according to U.S. News & World Report. The university enrolls over 36,000 students across 224 degree programs and contributes significantly to both local and state economies.
