The Immune System is largely forgotten in the standard treatment of cancer. However, the relationship between both developing and treating cancer, with immune system issues, is becoming better understood. In fact, treatments aimed at stimulating the immune system cells is now mainstream. For example, the more recent use of Neupagen and Neulasta has allowed patients to continue chemotherapy where previously they would have had to discontinue, due to low white blood cell counts. Many of the newer treatments being developed world-wide target the immune system, including vaccines and molecularly targeted agents.
At Integrated Health Clinic Cancer Care Centre, we have long believed that supporting your body’s natural immune system is pivotal to the success of any cancer treatment program. Through the management of diet and physical activity, and the educated use of natural supplements and injection therapies, your body’s immune system can be engaged as a primary treatment mechanism in the fight against cancer. We support the immune system throughout the cancer journey using many evidence-based modalities including;
- Loco-Regional Hyperthermia (LRHT) with the Oncotherm EHY-2000 Plus (click to visit LRHT page)
- Intravenous Vitamin C (IVAA)
- Iscador & Helixor
- Thymoject (Thymus peptides)
- Polyerga
- Coriolus PSP and other medicinal mushrooms
- Low-dose Naltrexone
- Cimetidine
- Melatonin
- Cancer-specific vaccines
- Acupuncture and Chinese herbs
- Mind-Body approaches including counseling
- Exercise and physical medicine (including massage and other touch therapies)
Our patients receive individualized guidance from our Naturopathic Physicians. Not all cancers nor patients behave the same and consequently, treatment plans need to be adapted to target the idiosyncrasies of varied cancers and the immune system needs of each patient. Our Doctors will take the time to help you understand this difference and implement a plan that is right for you.
If you are already engaged in, or planning to become engaged in chemotherapy treatment, the importance of immune system support cannot be over emphasized. Chemotherapy is an effective treatment for most cancers but it is a treatment proven to be very hard on your body. Your body’s natural defences become compromised and you can become susceptible to illness and infection. The greater the effort made before and during chemotherapy to empower your body to manage these side effects, the stronger you will be and the more effective the overall treatment regimen will be.
We encourage you to visit Integrated Health Clinic to meet with our physicians and learn more about these immune targeted treatments.
