Moving towards integrative oncology as a system of cancer care in Ghana

Naturopathic Oncology is the application of naturopathic medicine to the field of cancer care & treatment. It is new in Ghana and Naturopathic doctors who specialize in naturopathic oncology understand both the standard treatments employed by medical oncologists and how best to work with them in a collaborative model of cancer treatment. Naturopath have a clear understanding of conventional treatments (including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy and surgery), and are leading experts on the multitude of natural therapies promoted to be beneficial in cancer care. Over half of all people living with cancer use complementary medicine alongside standard treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The De Men's Clinic & Prostate Research Lab harnesses the best of what complementary medicine has to offer providing this in conjunction with conventional cancer care, according to an approach known as integrative oncology. De Men's Clinic & Prostate Research Lab is committed to increasing the understanding of naturopathic medicine and acceptance of integrative oncology as a system of care in Ghana. We aim to do this primarily by improving the quality of patients' lives and in the conduct and dissemination of relevant research.

Integrative oncology uses the strengths of complementary medicine without compromising safety or effectiveness of conventional treatment. Complementary therapies provided at the right times can have a dramatic impact on patients' ability to tolerate chemotherapy with reduced side effects. Integrative oncology is supported by evidence and most importantly, by the very real benefits achieved by those living with cancer.

A common misconception is that complementary medicine is not evidence-based. This could not be further from the truth. Over several decades there has been exponential growth in basic science and clinical research on complementary medicine, particularly in the field of oncology.

The claim that complementary medicine is non-scientific is baseless.

fortunately, many therapies once considered alternative, are now accepted as sound, credible and applicable. A highly important question posed in this context is: what keeps the two disciplines of complementary from conventional medicine separate? One thought is that modern day conventional medicine is focused and reliant on high-tech devices and the use of patentable prescription drugs. Financial support for medical research does largely come from the pharmaceutical industry and makers of medical devices. Some argue that we have lost touch with the human element so critical to health and healing. Fortunately, there is a growing understanding of the benefits of mind-body medicine but we still have a long way to go in Ghana. Another area of debate regarding the merits of complementary medicine is the issue of its cost and cost effectiveness. The public directly experiences the expense of fee for-service care when paying for complementary medicine. However, the astronomically larger cost of our Ghanaian health care system is hidden. Complementary medicine has gained a large and growing following through its emphasis on individualized care that empowers patients to take greater control of their health. Therapies we have adopted at the De Men's Clinic & Prostate Research Lab in Dodowa, Akoto House include naturopathic medicine, an inherently integrative approach to care that is grounded in: science, the wisdom of experience, and an emphasis on a person's ability to heal through supporting internal resources. Clinicians at the Centre are regulated health-care practitioners with experience and training in cancer care. We do not promote alternative care; rather, we are pushing for greater integration with the current model of care. We strive for closer collaboration with colleagues at the hospital and in the community, so that our patients will not feel torn between opposing realities and are truly supported in their choice, based on understanding and trust. Through outreach, education and research we are pushing for positive change and real integration.

Standard treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, hormonal and targeted therapies have powerful roles to play. However, integrative medicine offers real value and an evidence base of its own. During and after conventional treatment, complementary care provides support for the body's innate immunity; reduces symptoms such as nausea, pain or fatigue; addresses key areas of mental and emotional health; empowers people to achieve improved quality of life; helps to prevent recurrence; and provides support for those coping with the prospect of dying.

We aims to serve as a catalyst, shifting the health care system towards a more upstream approach to care that is proactive, effective, preventative and, truly integrated. Most important, we are demonstrating the ability to effect real positive change for those living with cancer

As cancer incidence increases and survival time lengthens, the population seeking information about and access to CAM is likely to increase. The evidence base for CAM is increasing, but as yet there are relatively few RCTs or systematic reviews. It should be remembered that a lack of scientific evidence does not necessarily mean that the treatment is ineffective. Given the level of use of CAM in the

Community, clinicians need to work in partnership with patients to provide them with the best information available. They need to be honest with patient's direct questioning about CAM and about their own knowledge and experience. They need to adequately inform patients about CAM that has been shown to be safe and effective (or safe and ineffective), discuss the risks and benefits of both CAM and orthodox treatment, and become familiar with qualified and competent CAM practitioners (both medical and nonmedical) to whom referrals can be made. It is safe to use integrative treatments during chemotherapy or radiation? Definitely. We have solid understanding of chemotherapeutic agents & radiation therapy. Any recommended treatment or therapy is well researched to prevent potential drug-herb & drug-nutrient interactions. The goal is to provide complementary therapeutic programs that do not interfere with standard treatments but instead, help to enhance overall effectiveness of these treatments while also minimizing associated side effects.

What if I'm not getting conventional cancer treatment?

If conventional treatment is not an option for you, there are numerous

Well-studied treatments that can help slow disease progression, strengthen the immune system, and increase overall quality of life.

I've finished conventional treatment -- how can Naturopathic Oncology help? Conventional treatment has been completed; a program can be developed for you that focus on preventing disease recurrence and maintaining optimal overall health.

In addition, treatment plans can be developed to assist in helping you regain your energy and get back to 'normal' following conventional treatments.

I am told that I am at high-risk, or have a pre-cancerous condition. Can Naturopathic Oncology be helpful for me?

Now is the best time to intervene. There are a number of well-studied treatments and therapies that have been shown to lower risk factors for cancer development. Simple lifestyle modifications including dietary changes, the inclusion of exercise regimes, and identifying & reducing environmental risk factors can be incorporated to reduce the overall risk of developing cancer. We strongly believes that a “watch and wait” approach should be replaced with “active prevention.” especially for black men

We work with oncologist? Absolutely.

We believes in open communication and collaboration with medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons and other allied health professionals in order to best support patients, and to help them cope with treatment-associated toxicity & side effects.

What should I expect in a naturopathic oncology Consultation? An initial consultation lasts up to 85 minutes, in which medical history, physical exam, relevant test results, and current health status are all assessed and a treatment plan is put in place. Follow-up blood tests may be requested to look more closely at vitamin/mineral status. The treatment plan varies for each patient but will consist of nutritional guidelines, vitamin & herb supplementation, and lifestyle changes. Patients return for follow-up sessions as needed (from 15 mins to 1 hr in duration).

The overall goal is to improve quality of life. We uses scientifically grounded, evidence-based natural cancer care to support the body's inherent healing ability, to strengthen the immune system, and to help maintain health. It is a 'whole person care' approach to cancer care that takes into account each individual's unique circumstances to customize treatment programs to ultimately help patients improve their quality of life (psychological, spiritual and About the writer Registered Naturopathic doctor/Prostate cancer specialist. Registration no:(TAP00396)with masters in Prostate Cancer-Sheffield Hallam University, UK. CEO of De Men's Clinic & Prostate Research Lab in Dodowa-Akoto House.

My holistic, naturopathic approach is exclusive for people combating Prostate Cancer, Prostatitis, Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain / Pelvic Pain and Male sexual dysfunction.

My research, writings and vocational passion are exclusive to these conditions: Cancer (prostate, bladder, kidney, breast, testicular), Prostatitis, Interstitial Cystitis, Male sexual dysfunction, Pain (specifically pelvic pain) and urinary incontinence. Treatments include: medicinal herbs, individualized nutrition, supplements, homeopathy and massage.

My research interest are black race and prostate cancer, Doppler for prostate cancer diagnosis, Naturopathy oncology and the Dangme People.

Our clinic specializes in integrative (Western & Eastern, Conventional & Natural) treatments for Prostate Cancer and Urological conditions. We individualize the treatments to the patients' needs from least invasive to more aggressive.Tel:0541090045