Integrative oncology in Australia.
In Australia, use of complementary and alternative therapies for cancer is widespread and increasing. Recent government inquiries have recommended stronger controls on manufacturing quality of complementary medicines, better availability of evidence-based information about complementary therapies, and more research into such therapies for cancer. At present very few Australian cancer centers provide complementary therapies along with orthodox service, but if the government adopts the recommendations of its committees, there will be pressure and possibly funding for such provision.
Department of Haematology/Oncology, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. r.m.lowenthal@utas.edu.au
Ray M
RM
Lowenthal
D001315:Australia; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control; D006291:Health Policy; D029001:Herbal Medicine / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D055048:Integrative Medicine; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D012109:Research Support as Topic