A recent global survey published in Supportive Care Cancer reveals that clinicians’ lack of knowledge, absence of referral pathways, and financial hurdles limit the adoption of integrative oncology strategies like yoga and acupuncture, highlighting critical, fixable gaps in patient care.
Integrative oncology combines conventional cancer treatments with complementary modalities such as mindfulness training, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications. Led by researchers including Alexandre Chan, president of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC), the study surveyed professionals to pinpoint why these supportive therapies are underutilized.
In Plain English: The Clinical Takeaway
- What integrative oncology is: The use of mind-body practices, yoga, and natural products alongside conventional cancer treatment to improve quality of life.
- The core problem: Clinicians often lack knowledge about or confidence in these modalities, and there is an absence of referral pathways or insurance coverage for patients.
- Why it matters: Fixing these structural barriers means patients can manage side effects like fatigue and pain during and after treatment.
Unpacking the Global Survey Findings and Clinician Barriers
Administered by leaders from MASCC and the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO), the 22-question online survey gathered insights from 282 respondents with a mean age of 50.7 years, of whom 63.4% were women. According to data published in Supportive Care Cancer and highlighted by Healio, clinician lack of knowledge or confidence topped the reported obstacles.
Lead author Alexandre Chan, PharmD, PhD, MPH, professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of California, Irvine, emphasized that respondents are the “experts of experts” who are already managing these issues for their patients. As Chan explained to Healio, many practitioners understand these therapies work but simply do not know how to help patients access them or navigate out-of-pocket costs. Confusion also contributed to the issue; historically, people assumed these treatments were meant to substitute standard cancer therapy, though that is incorrect.
Communication breakdowns further exacerbate these gaps. Referencing earlier findings by Kessel’s team, over half of cancer patients stated their doctor never proposed integrative options, while roughly one out of every six individuals mentioned having talked about the topic with their physician.
| Survey Parameter | Reported Data / Finding |
|---|---|
| Total Survey Respondents | 282 (MASCC and SIO members) |
| Demographics | 63.4% women; mean age 50.7 years |
| Primary Barrier Identified | Clinician lack of knowledge and confidence in modalities |
| Secondary Barriers | Absence of formal referral pathways and insurance coverage |
Contraindications & When to Consult a Doctor
Patients must consult their medical provider before initiating remedies or regimens.
Open communication ensures that complementary practices enhance overall well-being without compromising primary protocols.
Looking Ahead: Bridging the Gap in Supportive Care
References
- Chan A, et al. Support Care Cancer. 2026; doi:10.1007/s00520-026-11020-2.
- Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) / Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO). Global Survey on Integrative Oncology Barriers.
- Healio Hematology/Oncology. ‘Fixable’ barriers limit use of integrative oncology strategies. August 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
