Cancer care engages with CAM

ALTHOUGH THIS compendium cannot possibly encompass the depth and breadth of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) as they are practised today, it does provide an array of interesting insights into what is a relatively uncharted field within the “modern occidental” medical community.

Aligned with the background of the editors — Ian Olver and Monica Robotin — from the Cancer Council Australia, Perspectives has a clear focus on oncology. Many of the authors do not come from a specific cancer-related professional background, but rather are of a wide variety of expertise with varied levels of research and clinical backgrounds. The topics presented are diverse; from regulatory aspects of CAMs and CAM practice, to the use of meditation, and a chapter on spirituality and prayer. The style, depth and breadth of the subject covered also vary between chapters, from rather brief introductions, to full-scale scientific assessments of CAMs’ validity and relevance within the framework of occidental medical practice. Appropriately, the book contains sections questioning the scientific support of some CAMs, while also advising of the potential adverse effects of CAMs and their interactions with conventional prescription medicines, imperative knowledge for all medical practitioners.

The text is not so basic as to appeal to the general public, but rather can be seen as a guide for conventional medical practitioners, academics, medical students and health professionals who wish to expand their knowledge and get a feel for the differing views on CAMs that exist. This publication is most apt for those with a special interest in oncology, such as oncologists and oncology nurses.

Though the extent to which different CAMs are presented in this book would not be sufficient to propel physicians to confidently provide advice on or prescribe CAMs, it is an easy read and replete with generally well-thought-out perspectives of CAMs from experts and enthusiasts from different disciplines, inviting readers to explore the possibility of expanding occidental medical practice beyond the current norm.