3 28 Ha r m fr o m Toxi c Ch e m i c a l s
Traditional and modern cancer treatments
Cancer affects people in different ways, and there is not one treatment that
works for every person. Western medicine, Chinese medicine, Indian Ayurvedic
medicine, and traditional medicines around the world all have treatments and
ways of promoting better health for people with cancer. Unfortunately, none of
them has a cure that works every time.
The best cancer treatments
promote general health and well-being
and involve the person in her own
treatment. When seeking treatment,
go to a doctor or other healer you
know and trust.
Community Health Center
Cancer Support Group Today
The people who understand
cancer best are those who have
survived it. Every cancer survivor
has her or his own story about
what helped and what did not.
Cancer sometimes requires
treatment with very strong
medicines that cause hard to
tolerate side effects. Cancer is
rarely cured by just one kind of
treatment, whether it is drugs,
herbal remedies, diet, or other therapies.
If you have cancer, it is helpful to seek
the friendship and advice of others who
The best treatment combines physical
have cancer or have survived it.
treatments, such as cancer drugs or
acupuncture, with promoting well-being by eating healthy foods. Emotional
and spiritual support is also important, through support groups, counseling,
prayer, or meditation.
When cancer cannot be cured
Some cancers can be cured but others cannot, especially if the cancer has
spread to several parts of the body.
Often, when cancer is found late, there is no cure. Then it may be best to
stay at home in the care of family. This time can be very difficult. A person
with cancer should eat as well as possible, and get plenty of rest. Medicines
for pain, anxiety, and sleeping problems can make a person with cancer more
comfortable. Talking with someone close can help prepare for death, and
plan for the family’s future. Caregivers can sometimes find support and help
providing care from a hospice (an organization that helps people in the last
stages of life).
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012