Introduction
Colon cancer (often referred to as colorectal cancer when including rectal cancer) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide and a major contributor to cancer morbidity and mortality. In many countries, it ranks among the top three most frequently diagnosed cancers and is a leading cause of cancer-related death. With ongoing increases in incidence among younger adults in some populations, colon cancer remains a pressing public health concern. Effective screening and advances in treatment have increased survival rates, but many survivors continue to face challenges well after active therapy ends.
Why Integrative Oncology Is Needed More Than Ever
Survivors of colon cancer often contend with a range of physical and emotional concerns after treatment. Persistent fatigue, changes in bowel function, abdominal discomfort, body composition changes, and psychosocial stress are commonly reported. Additionally, the fear of recurrence and the long-term effects of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can affect quality of life. While traditional oncology care focuses on eradicating disease, many survivors need additional support addressing ongoing symptoms and health optimization during survivorship.
Holistic Care for Colon Cancer
The goal of a holistic, integrative treatment plan is to address the whole person and offer personalized advive. We optimize lifestyle factors that influence cancer biology, symptom burden, and overall quality of life. This approach incorporates individualized lifestyle counseling alongside conventional care to support both physical and emotional well-being.
Below are examples of how I support individuals living with colon cancer through integrative oncology care.
Exercise Counselling
This has emerged as one of the most powerful evidence-supported adjuncts in colon cancer care. A landmark international clinical trial showed that a structured exercise program initiated after surgery and chemotherapy resulted in significantly better outcomes: participants had a nearly 30% lower risk of cancer recurrence or a second cancer and a 37% lower risk of death compared to those receiving standard health education. These findings mark a shift in how physical activity is viewed for colon cancer survivors—no longer just a quality-of-life intervention, but a credible part of survivorship care with measurable survival benefits.
Nutrition Counselling
Food also plays a key role in recovery and long-term health after colon cancer. Dietary patterns focused on whole, minimally processed foods, rich in fiber, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory components, are associated with improved health outcomes and may support weight management and metabolic health.
Mind-body Practices
Yoga can be a valuable component of an integrative care plan for colon cancer survivors. Yoga offers gentle physical movement combined with breath work and mindfulness, which can support flexibility, strength, stress reduction, and overall emotional well-being. Yoga has also been found to improve energy, sleep and immune function.
Acupuncture
The benefits of acupuncture in cancer care are undeniable. Acupuncture can reduce the pain and discomfort of neuropathy caused by chemotherapy, can restore proper bowel function after radiation, reduce stress and improve immune function.
Every treatment plan is individualized, depending on what symptoms you struggle with and how you were affected by cancer treatments. All treatment recommendations are backed up by peer-reviewed clinical research, and are not only safe, but extremely effective, to get you feeling better, faster.
