April is Cancer Control Month. What exactly is that, and why does it matter?
If you’re perplexed by the term, you’re not alone. “Cancer Control Month” can feel a little unclear at first. It’s not about controlling cancer in a literal sense. Instead, it refers to the many ways we can reduce the impact of cancer through screening and early detection, treatment, and long-term support.
Cancer Control Month was established by Congress in 1938 to bring awareness to the full spectrum of cancer care. At its core, it is about reducing the impact of cancer on people’s lives and supporting patients at every stage of their journey
Today, that mission feels more relevant than ever. Because cancer care isn’t just about fighting a disease, it is about caring for the whole person.
A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Many patients describe it as a flood of information, decisions, and emotions all at once. While conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are essential, patients often look for ways to feel better during treatment and recover more fully afterward.
This is where natural and integrative medicine can play an important role.
What “Cancer Control” Really Means
Cancer Control Month highlights the many ways we can reduce the impact of cancer through thoughtful, proactive care:
- Prevention: Healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol in excess and tobacco, help lower cancer risk.
- Early detection: Routine screenings and check-ups increase the likelihood of finding cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.
- Treatment and support: Access to effective care, symptom management, and complementary therapies improve comfort and quality of life.
- Survivorship: After treatment, guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle supports recovery and the risk of recurrence.
This month is a reminder that cancer care is not only about treatment, it’s also about empowering patients to take steps that support overall wellness.
What is Integrative Cancer Care?
Integrative cancer care brings together conventional treatments and supportive therapies. It is not about replacing oncology care, it’s about enhancing it. Think of it as a “round table” approach: oncologists, naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists, and other providers each contribute to the patient’s overall plan, focusing on well-being during and after treatment and evidence-based supportive therapies.
Dr. Chandler Loch, ND, MSOM, MPA:HA, at NUNM Health Centers, works with patients with cancer to design personalized integrative plans. “Our goal is to help patients tolerate treatment better, maintain a higher quality of life, and feel empowered to care for themselves throughout their journey,” he explains.
How Natural Medicine Supports Patients
Natural medicine focuses on improving how patients feel during treatment and supporting recovery afterward. Common side effects like nausea, anemia, fatigue, and neuropathy can significantly impact daily life, and integrative approaches aim to reduce these symptoms.
Some supportive therapies include:
- Acupuncture: Helps with nausea, neuropathy, and pain, often bringing a sense of calm during treatment.
- Nutrition and supplements: Tailored dietary strategies maintain strength, reduce inflammation, and support recovery.
- Botanical medicine: Certain herbs, like ginger, can help with nausea or general wellness.
- Hydrotherapy and lifestyle support: Simple therapies that enhance circulation, improve energy, and support resilience.
Every plan is individualized based on the patient’s diagnosis, treatment, and personal needs.
Support Before, During, and After Treatment
- Before treatment: Even before starting conventional therapy, integrative care can help patients prepare physically and emotionally. This may include optimizing nutrition, reducing stress, addressing sleep, and supporting immune function. Establishing a care team early helps patients feel empowered and ready for the journey ahead.
- During treatment: Care focuses on managing side effects, supporting energy and mood, and helping patients stay on track with medical treatments. Frequent visits allow providers to address emerging needs promptly.
- After treatment: Care shifts toward long-term wellness. Guidance may include nutrition, movement, stress management, and lifestyle strategies to aid recovery and reduce future risk.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
One common misconception is that natural medicine can replace conventional cancer treatment. Research shows that alternative therapies alone can lead to worse outcomes. Integrative care is different; it is designed to complement medical treatment, not compete with it.
Misinformation online is another challenge. Working with trained providers helps patients make informed, safe decisions about supportive therapies.
Practical Steps for Cancer Control Month
Even if you’re not currently undergoing treatment, there are ways to participate in Cancer Control Month and support your health:
- Schedule recommended screenings for early detection.
- Make small lifestyle improvements, like adding daily movement or eating more vegetables.
- Explore integrative approaches that can support wellness before, during, and after treatment.
- Ask your healthcare team about resources, including complementary therapies.
By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your health and make meaningful choices that support prevention, treatment, and recovery.
A Message for Patients
If you or a loved one is facing cancer, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Start by building your care team, asking questions, and seeking support. Focus on the basics: sleep, nutrition, and movement, then gradually, a sense of rhythm and control emerges.
Natural medicine can be a valuable part of that support system, helping patients move through treatment with greater comfort, resilience, and confidence.