Guest Editors
Prof. Ansheng Lee Zhang
Email: Anshengzhang867@gmail.com
Affiliation: Professor of Medicine and Visiting Professor Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
Research Interests: Oncology and Clinical Research
Dr. Gaurav Goyal
Email: dr.gaurav867@gmail.com
Affiliation: Professor, Subdivison of head and neck cancer, Oral Medicine, GIDSR, Punjab, India
Research Interests: Oncology, Precision Medicine and Clinical research
Dr. Katarzyna Nowak
Email: author1212@outlook.com
Affiliation: Professor, Uzdrowisko Ustroń Health Resort, Poland
Research Interests: Psychological interventions and Yoga Therapy
Summary
Cancer treatment has evolved beyond traditional medical interventions to incorporate psychological and integrative medicine approaches, aimed at improving the overall well-being and quality of life for primary cancer patients. This special issue explores the intersection of psychological interventions and integrative medicine in cancer care, focusing on how these therapies work together to enhance patient outcomes. With cancer-related psychological distress being a significant factor affecting patients' mental health, there is growing evidence that psychological support can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Simultaneously, integrative medicine practices, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, yoga, and mindfulness, are increasingly recognized for their role in supporting cancer treatment and patient recovery. This issue brings together key research articles, clinical studies, and patient-centered perspectives to highlight the benefits of combining psychological and integrative interventions. It begins with a systematic review of psychological interventions for cancer patients, emphasizing cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and supportive-expressive group therapy. Next, the issue explores various integrative medicine approaches, including mind-body practices and their effects on cancer-related fatigue, immune function, and overall treatment response. By presenting evidence from clinical trials, case studies, and patient experiences, the articles demonstrate how these therapies not only improve mental health outcomes but may also contribute to longer survival and reduced recurrence rates.
A critical examination of the future directions for psycho-oncology and integrative medicine is also provided, considering the integration of emerging technologies like AI-driven psychological tools and the role of personalized medicine in shaping future treatments. This special issue aims to provide healthcare practitioners, researchers, and policy-makers with insights into the practical implementation of psychological and integrative therapies, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach in cancer care for improving patient quality of life and treatment success.
Keywords
Psychological Interventions, Integrative Medicine, Primary Cancer Patients
