Dr Lee on the Role of Integrative Medicine in Oncology Care

Richard Lee, MD, FASCO, Cherng Family Director's Chair of the Center for Integrative Oncology at City of Hope, discussed the evolving role of integrative medicine in oncology care.

At the 50th Annual Oncology Nursing Congress, Lee highlighted the importance of aligning patient preferences with evidence-based interventions such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and mind-body practices, including yoga and tai chi. These approaches, guided by recent joint practice guidelines from the Society for Integrative Oncology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology, are used to address symptoms such as pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Lee emphasized the value of a coordinated care model that avoids the use of multiple therapies at once, and he encouraged collaboration among integrative specialists and supportive care teams.