Integrative Oncology at the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center is a patient-centered program that combines therapies based on the best available evidence with conventional cancer treatments to improve well-being, quality of life, and clinical outcomes for individuals experiencing cancer. No matter your diagnosis, our specialists from Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health work diligently to prioritize you holistic wellness through various integrative therapies.
Each cancer patient has unique needs, depending on the type and stage of their disease, as well as their age, gender and current lifestyle habits. Integrative oncology addresses these specific needs through the combination of traditional cancer treatments and complimentary, supportive therapies. To empower patients to be an active participant in their care, our multidisciplinary oncologists incorporate exercises of the body and mind with recommendations for personalized lifestyle changes based on the best available evidence.
Goals of Integrative Oncology
Integrative oncology supports cancer patients by enhancing their overall well-being throughout treatment with a holistic approach. The goals of providing complimentary therapies are to:
- Increase patient’s sense of control
- Decrease ongoing inflammation
- Increase body’s innate immunity in fight against cancer
- Decrease stress
- Increase hope
Prioritizing Holistic Wellness for All Cancer Patients
Our multidisciplinary experts tailor our resources to each patient's unique needs. Integrative Oncology services focus on the mind, body, and spirit, including activities like movement, touch, diet and nutrition, and mindfulness.
Complementary Health Approaches for Cancer Treatment
No complementary approach has been shown to cure cancer or cause it to go into remission. Some products or practices that have been advocated for cancer treatment may interfere with conventional cancer treatments or have other risks. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you should consult your health care providers before using any complementary health approach.
Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.
Why Choose an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center for Integrative Care?
NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers like Rutgers Cancer Institute offer unparalleled advantages for cancer care. Our multidisciplinary experts take a personalized approach to integrative oncology based on the best available evidence, as we believe wellness is different for every patient. Translating science from bench to bedside, our researchers and dedicated care teams work in coordination to turn our discoveries into your care. Through this collaborative effort, we strive to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life for those facing a cancer diagnosis.
Additional Resources
Related Articles and Press
Nutrition Experts Share Top Tips for Every Day Wellness
Good nutrition and movement are vital parts of health, whether you’re a cancer patient, survivor, caregiver, or loved one – and practicing healthy eating has been shown to help prevent cancer and cancer recurrence.
Experts Highlight Strategies for Cancer Control and Prevention
Many cancers can be prevented, and others can be detected early in their development, treated and cured. Learn from Rutgers Cancer Institute experts to discover ways that everyone can take control of their health and reduce cancer risk.