Cancer Alternative: Health Story

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, July 16 and October 29, 2005
Show 218

"We know from long-time research that stress has a profound effect on physiological functioning," says Lorenzo Cohen PhD, Director of Integrative Medical Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center where yoga and acupuncture are being offered as complementary companions to chemotherapy. This stress-removing program is an innovative approach to healing. Stress decreases the function of the immune system which is relevant in the healing process. It is key to get one's own immune system to fight disease. Studies show yoga improves a sense of well-being. Cancer patient Sharon Travers who was pregnant when diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma says, "Yoga classes really helped me relax and accept treatment." Alan Oswald, a prostrate cancer patient, says, "Acupuncture treatments have had a positive effect on my cancer." Dr. Joseph Chiang, anesthesiologist and acupuncture specialist at MD Anderson Cancer Center, says, "The mind is a partner with the body in the battle against cancer."