Acupuncture Integrative Oncology Institute
Home of Complementary, Alternative & Integrative Neuroimmunomodulation
IntegrativeOncologyNY
IntegrativeOncologyNY | Albany, Rochester. Syracuse, Binghamton, NY
Integrate Traditional Chinese Medicine with Conventional Western Medicine
Find the Best Way for Integration, Not a Simple Combination
518-280-0962; 585-358-6186; 315-378-5556; 607-372-2082
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Immunity, Inflammation, Cancer and Acupuncture
Immunity, Inflammation, and Cancer
Inflammation is often associated with the development and progression of cancer. The cells responsible for cancer-associated inflammation are genetically stable and thus are not subjected to rapid emergence of drug resistance; therefore, the targeting of inflammation represents an attractive strategy both for cancer prevention and for cancer therapy (Nitin Singh, et al. Ann Afr Med. 2019 Jul-Sep; 18(3): 121–126). Recent data have expanded the concept that inflammation is a critical component of tumour progression. Many cancers arise from sites of infection, chronic irritation and inflammation. It is now becoming clear that the tumour microenvironment, which is largely orchestrated by inflammatory cells, is an indispensable participant in the neoplastic process, fostering proliferation, survival and migration. In addition, tumour cells have co-opted some of the signalling molecules of the innate immune system, such as selectins, chemokines and their receptors for invasion, migration and metastasis. These insights are fostering new anti-inflammatory therapeutic approaches to cancer development (Lisa M. Coussens and Zena Werb. Inflammation and cancer. Nature. 2002 Dec 19; 420(6917): 860–867).
Integrative Oncology Acupuncture
Researches have documented the anti-inflammatory actions and mechanisms of acupuncture from acupoint to target organs via neuro-Immune regulation (Ningcen Li, et al. J Inflamm Res. 2021; 14: 7191–7224). Researchers discover neurons needed for acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory response (https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2021/11/researchers-pinpoint-how-acupuncture-targets-inflammation/). Harvard Magazine has reported “Fine-tuning acupuncture to heal, not harm”(https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2020/12/right-now-acupuncture-relieves-inflammation).
Acupuncture may stimulate anticancer immunity via activation of natural killer cells (Michael Francis Johnston, Elizabeth Ortiz Sánchez, Nikola L. Vujanovic, Wenhui Li. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011; 2011: 481625). This article presents the hypothesis that acupuncture enhances anticancer immune functions by stimulating natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are white blood cells that destroy infected and diseased cells, like cancer cells.
Acupuncture is increasingly recognized as a supportive therapy for cancer patients, including those undergoing immunotherapy. 1. How Acupuncture May Support Cancer Immunotherapy: Managing Side Effects: Cancer immunotherapy, while effective, can cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, pain, and anxiety. Acupuncture may help alleviate these symptoms, potentially improving a patient's ability to tolerate and continue immunotherapy treatment. Potentially Enhancing Immune Function: Some research suggests acupuncture may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially influencing the activity of immune cells involved in fighting cancer. Improving Quality of Life: By reducing symptoms and potentially improving immune function, acupuncture may contribute to an overall improvement in the quality of life for cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. 2. Evidence Supporting Acupuncture's Role in Cancer Care: Pain Management: Studies have shown acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing cancer pain and pain associated with cancer treatments. Nausea and Vomiting: Research indicates acupuncture may help manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), a common side effect that can impact treatment adherence. Fatigue: Acupuncture may help reduce cancer-related fatigue, a significant symptom for many patients, and potentially improve sleep quality. Anxiety and Depression: Acupuncture may have a positive impact on mood and emotional well-being, helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of cancer and treatment. 3. Important Considerations: Integrative Approach: Acupuncture should be considered as part of an integrative oncology approach, working alongside conventional cancer treatments like immunotherapy, rather than as a replacement. Consult with your Oncologist: Discussing the potential benefits of acupuncture with your oncologist is essential to ensure a coordinated and safe treatment plan. Qualified Practitioner: It's crucial to seek treatment from a licensed and experienced acupuncturist who is familiar with working with cancer patients. Potential Risks: While generally safe, minor side effects like bruising or soreness at the needle insertion site may occur. In Summary: Acupuncture shows promise as a complementary therapy to support cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. It may help manage side effects, potentially influence immune function, and improve overall well-being. However, it's crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare team to determine if acupuncture is a suitable option for your individual circumstances. Google AI Overview This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes.
Immunotherapy to Treat Cancer (NCI)
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer. The immune system helps your body fight infections and other diseases. It is made up of white blood cells and organs and tissues of the lymph system.
Immunotherapy is a type of biological therapy. Biological therapy is a type of treatment that uses substances made from living organisms to treat cancer.
What are the types of immunotherapy? (NCI)
Several types of immunotherapy are used to treat cancer. These include:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are drugs that block immune checkpoints. These checkpoints are a normal part of the immune system and keep immune responses from being too strong. By blocking them, these drugs allow immune cells to respond more strongly to cancer.
T-cell transfer therapy, which is a treatment that boosts the natural ability of your T cells to fight cancer. In this treatment, immune cells are taken from your tumor. Those that are most active against your cancer are selected or changed in the lab to better attack your cancer cells, grown in large batches, and put back into your body through a needle in a vein.
T-cell transfer therapy may also be called adoptive cell therapy, adoptive immunotherapy, or immune cell therapy.
Monoclonal antibodies, which are immune system proteins created in the lab that are designed to bind to specific targets on cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibodies mark cancer cells so that they will be better seen and destroyed by the immune system. Such monoclonal antibodies are a type of immunotherapy.
Monoclonal antibodies may also be called therapeutic antibodies.
Treatment vaccines, which work against cancer by boosting your immune system’s response to cancer cells. Treatment vaccines are different from the ones that help prevent disease.
Immune system modulators, which enhance the body’s immune response against cancer. Some of these agents affect specific parts of the immune system, whereas others affect the immune system in a more general way.
Cancer Immunology
Cancer immunology is a branch of biology that studies the interactions between the immune system and cancer cells. It aims to understand how the immune system recognizes and fights cancer, as well as how cancer cells evade immune detection. Key Concepts: Immune Surveillance: The body's natural ability to detect and eliminate cancer cells before they develop into tumors. Tumor Microenvironment: The cells, proteins, and other factors that surround a tumor and influence its growth. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs that block immune checkpoints, which can prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells. Adoptive Cell Therapy: A treatment in which immune cells, such as T cells, are taken from a patient, engineered to recognize cancer cells, and then infused back into the body. Cancer Vaccines: Vaccines that stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. Applications: Cancer Treatment: Immunotherapy, which uses the patient's own immune system to fight cancer, is a promising treatment option for many types of cancer. Cancer Prevention: Understanding how the immune system detects cancer can lead to the development of vaccines and other preventive measures. Early Cancer Detection: Immune biomarkers can be used to identify early signs of cancer. Research: Cancer immunology is an active area of research. Scientists are investigating new ways to: Improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy, Develop novel immune checkpoint inhibitors, Understand how tumor microenvironments influence immune responses, Create vaccines that can prevent cancer, and Identify and target cancer-specific immune biomarkers. Conclusion: Cancer immunology is a rapidly evolving field with the potential to significantly advance the treatment and prevention of cancer. By understanding the interactions between the immune system and cancer cells, researchers can develop innovative therapies that harness the body's own defenses to fight cancer. Note: It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical advice or treatment options. Google AI Overview. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes.
Compassionate Care
At Acupuncture Integrative Oncology Institute, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the disease. Our team of expert provides personalized care and support to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.
We offer integrative oncology acupuncture treatment services. Our goal is to help our patients feel their best during and after treatment.
If you or a loved one is facing a cancer diagnosis, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and consultation with our experienced specialist, before starting treatment.