Santhosshi Narayanan, MD - United States of America

Abstract of the presentation

Integrative Therapies in Cancer Symptom Management

Branch: Other (General integrative medicine)

Recording

Background: As guidelines and interest in integrative and complementary approaches for cancer symptom management grow, there is an increasing incorporation of various integrative oncology (IO) modalities into cancer care. Our integrative medicine service at MD Anderson provides consultations to patients across the continuum of cancer care in an evidence-informed manner.

Content: The presentation will begin with definitions of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine, as well as a definition of integrative oncology. We will then discuss the MD Anderson Integrative Oncology model, highlighting evidence-based data on how we assess patients in our clinic, reasons for referral, patient concerns, and treatment recommendations. We will provide an overview of various integrative therapies, including acupuncture, oncology massage, yoga, meditation, health psychology programs, and music therapy. This will be followed by an explanation of how different therapies are selected based on individual patient symptoms. The presentation will also cover NCCN and ASCO-SIO guidelines on integrative therapies for managing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and anxiety. Finally, we will briefly address the approach to herbs and supplements based on current evidence.

Curriculum vitae

Dr. Santhosshi Narayanan is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Integrative Medicine Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She is a board member of the Society of Integrative Oncology (SIO), co-chaired its Global Committee, and founded the Ayurveda Special Interest Group. She has also served on the board of the American College of Physicians (ACP). Dr. Narayanan co-founded the MD Anderson Onco-hospitalist fellowship program in 2015 and transitioned to Integrative Medicine in 2018. She integrates diet, exercise, mind-body practices, and integrative therapies into cancer care. An accomplished researcher, she has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. She led one of the first clinical trials on meditation in hospitalized cancer patients and published on the use of medicinal mushrooms in oncology. Her work has been presented at national and international conferences, enhancing the evidence base for integrative oncology. She has received multiple honors, including MD Anderson’s Award for Excellence in Professionalism, ACP and SIO Leadership Awards, and a Best Teaching Faculty Award from UT Tyler. Originally from India, Dr. Narayanan completed her medical training at Michigan State University. She is board-certified in Internal Medicine, trained in research through Harvard Medical School Global Programs, and completed leadership training through several national organizations. She is fellowship-trained in Integrative Medicine and completed her Master’s in Ayurveda. Her mission is to advance integrative cancer care to enhance patient well-being and outcomes.

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