Positive Health Online

Abstract

KAEGI, National Cancer Institute of Canada, Toronto, Ontario writes that doctors and patients have been frustrated by the lack of reliable information regarding unconventional treatment therapies.

Background

Methodology

In order to help redress this gap in the area of breast cancer therapy, the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Initiative formed a task force to study how best to promote research in unconventional therapies. Part of this work involved a review of the literature for the following products: 1) Essiac 2) green tea 3) Iscador 4) hydrazine sulfate 5) vitamins A, C and E and 6) 714-X . The first article in the series describes the methodology and provides a summary of the findings regarding Essiac. Subsequent articles will concern the other products.

Results

For most of the products reviewed, there was some indication of possible benefit but no definitive evidence. Collaborative research is now being sponsored by the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Initiative. The Ontario Division of the Canadian Cancer Society supported the preparation of a patient-information document about unconventional therapies to accompany the series.

Conclusion

References

Kaegi E. Unconventional therapies for cancer: 1. Essiac. The Task Force on Alternative Therapies of the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Initiative. CMAJ 158(7): 897-902. 7 Apr 1998.

Comment

The above picture seems very reassuring, especially since certain Canadian provinces dont even recognise certain profession such as Naturopathy, and there have been several high profile attempts to suppress the use of complementary and alternative medicine. This does not fit in with my own large family, who almost to a person refuse to consider taking even vitamin supplements.