When should alternative (unproven) cancer treatments be avoided?

When they will delay diagnosis of cancer

When they will interfere with established treatment

When they will prolong or worsen the disease experience

When they stop you using medical treatment that could improve your health

Key points

When they will delay diagnosis of cancer

If you have a troubling symptom and you wish to seek the advice of an alternative therapist, it is a good idea to also see a medical practitioner. Some symptoms of cancer may not be noticed or may be misdiagnosed by an alternative therapist.

Symptoms that should always be checked by a doctor include any new or unexplainable swelling, bleeding, pain and continued hoarseness or coughing. These symptoms don't necessarily mean that you have cancer, but should be checked.

When they will interfere with established treatment

Many alternative treatments are probably harmless, but not all. Some herbs and vitamins can interact with chemotherapy and radiotherapy so that they don't work as they should, or can cause harm. Before you begin a therapy prescribed by an alternative therapist, check with your cancer specialist that it is safe and won't affect your medical treatment, reduce the effectiveness of the medical treatment, and/or increase the risk of side effects.

When they will prolong or worsen the disease experience

Some people find that complementary therapies like relaxation, yoga and massage can improve their experience of established treatment, making them feel less anxious and more in control.

For some people, alternative therapies can make the experience much worse. This can happen:

• if you rely on alternative treatments that are not proven to work
• if your alternative therapist makes you feel responsible when their treatment doesn't make you better
• if it makes you sicker
• if it upsets you or costs more than you can really afford.

When they stop you using medical treatment that could improve your health

Some alternative therapists suggest to people they treat not to have established medical treatments or to cease them. The alternative therapist may warn that medical treatment will stop the alternative therapy working. Be very wary of claims like this. Always get an opinion from a cancer specialist.

Key points

• Beware of 'magic' or 'miracle' cures. Always get an informed opinion from your cancer specialist and/or the Cancer Council Helpline.
• Complementary therapies can be helpful additions to established treatment for people with cancer.
• Most alternative therapists cannot diagnose cancer.
• Some alternative treatments can interfere with established treatments and worsen your experience of cancer.

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Updated September 2004