Integrative Medicine Program
The Integrative Medicine Program provides structure and direction for research, education and patient care efforts in complementary and integrative medicine.
Vision
To be at the forefront in research, education and patient care in complementary and integrative medicine for cancer patients.
Mission
Dr. Robert Newman in his laboratory
- To conduct cutting-edge research examining intervention programs to improve quality of life and clinical outcomes
- To provide authoritative, accurate and current information for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals
- To offer complementary therapies that may be used in concert with mainstream care to manage symptoms, relieve stress and enhance quality of life
Research
Dr. Chiang teaching acupuncture to staff
Our research focus is on reducing the negative consequences of cancer diagnosis and treatment through studying the use of programs such as acupuncture and yoga to treat side effects and improve quality of life and by examining the use of plants and other natural compounds to treat cancer and cancer-related symptoms.
Education
Patients practicing tai chi
The Complementary/Integrative Medicine Resources (CIMER) Web site provides authoritative, current information for health care professionals, caregivers and patients who want to know more about how to safely supplement conventional cancer care with complementary and integrative medicine therapies. The Web site also coordinates educational activities, such as a monthly lecture series at M. D. Anderson and online continuing education through links to Natural Standard, the National Cancer Institute and the American Botanical Council.
Patient Care
Clinical delivery of integrative medicine is provided in the Integrative Medicine clinic, Place…of wellness (2 locations), and inpatient services. The clinic offers professional guidance to assist patients regarding complementary treatments. The Place … of wellness is a clinical center providing therapies to patients and caregivers. Therapies offered can enhance patients’ quality of life through programs that complement medical care and focus on the mind, body, and spirit such as guided imagery, meditation, yoga, tai chi, music therapy, acupuncture, and massage.
Using Natural Defense in Cancer Prevention and Care
David Servan-Schreiber, M.D., Ph.D., renowned psychiatrist and researcher in neurocognitive function, cofounder of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), spoke at an Integrative Medicine Program Lecture Series special program on July 12, 2009. Dr. Servan-Schreiber is the author of the acclaimed book, "Anticancer: A New Way of Life", a New York Times bestseller translated into more than 33 languages.
What health behaviors can help to stimulate our natural mechanisms against developing cancer? What has been happening since World War II in societies of developed nations that has promoted a dramatic rise in the occurrence of cancer?
Using Natural Defense in Cancer Prevention and Care (58:24)
Read more about Dr. Servan-Schreiber's visit to M. D. Anderson in Focused on Health.