MD Anderson’s Integrative Medicine Program

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) are therapies of proven or unproven efficacy that have been used to promote wellness, to manage symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment, or to treat cancer. When properly combined with standard cancer treatments, some complementary therapies can enhance wellness and quality of life, but others may be harmful during or after treatment for cancer. Most, but not all, are natural products.

MD Anderson’s Integrative Medicine Program provides information for health care professionals and patients regarding the current understanding of complementary medicine and to assist in the integration of these therapies with conventional treatments, where appropriate. Our intention is to provide evidence-based information to improve the lives of patients who choose to use these therapies under the direction of informed physicians.

Complementary Therapy Resources

American Botanical Council provides reliable, up-to-date information about herbs based on modern science and traditional wisdom. The publications are peer-reviewed, and include a vast selection of periodicals, books, monographs, safety reviews, continuing education materials and searchable online databases.

ConsumerLab provides independent testing, quality ratings and comparisons of hundreds of vitamins, supplements and other health products.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) is an interactive resource for reliable information on herbs, dietary supplements, alternative systems of medicine, vitamin and mineral ingredients of currently available natural medicines and more. Information includes safety and effectiveness ratings, drug interactions and uses for each product. This consumer version does not require a log-in.

Natural Standard, founded by healthcare professionals and researchers, provides high-quality, evidence-based information about complementary and alternative medicine including dietary supplements and integrative therapies. Grades reflect the level of available scientific data for or against the use of each therapy for a specific medical condition.

The Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO) provides information for patients and professionals on advanced evidence-based, comprehensive, integrative health care to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.