Why people use complementary or alternative therapies
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There are a number of reasons why people use complementary or alternative therapies.
An overview of studies (a meta analysis) published in 2012 suggested that around half of people with cancer use some sort of complementary therapy at some time during their illness.
There is no evidence to suggest that any type of complementary therapy prevents or cures cancer.
For some therapies there is currently very little research evidence to show that they help with certain symptoms – for example, pain or hot flushes.
But there is research going on and we are starting to collect evidence for some types of therapy.
Using therapies to help you feel better
People often use complementary therapies to help them feel better and cope with having cancer and treatment. How you feel plays a part in how you cope.
Many complementary therapies concentrate on relaxation and reducing stress. They might help to calm your emotions, relieve anxiety, and increase your general sense of health and well-being.
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