In addition to modern medical methods being applied to treat tumor and tumor patients in Ho Chi Minh City, traditional medicine is being integrated in caring for and supporting cancer patients, especially in reducing side effects, enhancing health and improving quality of life.
According to Dr. Diep Bao Tuan - Director of Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, the current trend of cancer treatment is not only focused on destroying tumors but also towards comprehensive care for patients, in which traditional medicine plays an important supporting role. However, he emphasized the need to properly understand the role of this method to avoid misgiving.
Up to now, no scientific research has confirmed that traditional medicine can cure cancer. But traditional medicine can support improving immunity, improving physical condition and reducing side effects during treatment," Dr. Diep Bao Tuan shared.
According to him, many cancer patients face prolonged pain, fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite or exhaustion after chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In that context, measures such as acupuncture, massage, functional rehabilitation, and using some supportive remedies as directed can help patients improve their quality of life.
At Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, the hospital has begun to develop the Department of Rehabilitation - Traditional Medicine in the direction of combining Eastern and Western medicine from the early stages of treatment to palliative care. Some techniques being applied include acupuncture, massage, pain relief support, reduced side effects of cancer treatment drugs and improved physical condition for patients.
Dr. Diep Bao Tuan said that a survey at the hospital shows that up to 76% of cancer patients need to use additional support methods from traditional medicine. This shows the great need of patients for comprehensive care both physically and mentally.
However, he also warned patients not to abandon modern treatment to chase after folk remedies passed down by word of mouth or advertisements to "cure cancer". According to him, this is a worrying reality because many patients are hospitalized in a state where the disease has progressed severely after a long period of self-treatment.
Patients who need treatment with traditional medicine should seek out licensed medical facilities with professional doctors to monitor. Do not spend money and health to run after unverified methods," Dr. Diep Bao Tuan advised.
He believes that the future of cancer treatment will be a harmonious combination of modern medicine, AI technology and supportive measures from traditional medicine to improve treatment efficiency and quality of life for patients.
