Major Cancer Breakthroughs
Cancer is a disease that must be stopped. "This year, one million Americans will learn they have cancer. Roughly two out of three cancer patients will die of the illness (or the related therapy) within five years of diagnosis. While the news media periodically announce major cancer breakthroughs, the cures are occurring mainly in the press releases," writes Rocky Muntraz.
Unorthodox Treatments
"Disillusioned with standard cancer treatments-which often have devastating side effects," Walters maintains, "that thousands are turning to
alternative or nontoxic therapies. Often called complementary, unorthodox, or non-conventional, these therapies include nutritional, herbal, metabolic, immune-enhancing, biologic, nontoxic pharmacologic, and psychological-behavioral approaches."
Non-invasive Methods
The National Institutes of Health National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) conducts and supports basic and applied research, training and disseminates information on complementary and alternative medicine. Many alternative and non-invasive methods are now being used to fight and prevent cancers.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies in an established health care system are based on alternative traditions or practices that may include acupuncture, ayurvedic practices, chiropractic, micro-nutrients, minerals, amino acids, herbs and fungi, homeopathy, natural products, massage, candle and
aromatherapy, music therapy, past life regressions and other numerous "new age" healing techniques.
Naturopathic Medicine
Reiki is a popular spiritual healing art and enlightenment system, that consists of channeling and the laying on of hands. Women’s healing groups and Drumming Circles are popping up in the small towns, suburbs and the big cities alike, for the purpose of prayers and healing. Naturopathic medicine, not to mention the good old fashioned American folk medicine, spells and ju-ju bags from the local shaman, herbal remedies and faith healing are still being practiced not just in the United States, but all over the world. Alternative treatments for cancer is a senstive subject for the US people.
Religious Resources
Alternative healing systems should not be a substitute for medical care, but can often go hand in hand with traditional medicine. Latin American and some African religious healing practices which may or may not include the use of the religious resources of Santeria or Voudon (Voodoo) are also protected by the First Amendment and are being seen more and more in this country.
Alternative Medicine
Studies suggest these therapies are sought out by individuals that not only have cancer, but those that are looking for cures for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, arthritis, back pain and other medical conditions. Unfortunately, when dealing in alternative medicine, fraud and quackery sometimes, rears it’s ugly head. Remember the often used adage, " If a claim sounds too good to be true, it probably is."