Ananda Lewis, the former MTV VJ and television host, passed away last week at the age of 52 due to breast cancer. In 2020, Lewis disclosed her battle with breast cancer, which had been ongoing for more than two years. She opted for holistic treatments, such as juicing, herbal remedies, and detox regimens, instead of conventional medical treatments.
By the time her cancer was detected, it had already progressed to an advanced stage. This delay was partly due to her long-standing apprehension about mammograms and concerns over radiation exposure.
Some cancer patients, like Lewis, are increasingly questioning traditional cancer treatments and leaning towards alternative therapies. Notably, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., initially delayed surgery for his pancreatic cancer, choosing a vegan diet, cleanses, and herbal remedies instead.
A study from May 2022 indicates that fewer than one percent of cancer patients refuse all treatment, yet another study found that over 19% decline some recommended treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation. Avoiding traditional treatments can lead to severe outcomes.
Research from Yale School of Medicine in 2017 found that breast or colorectal cancer patients who opted for alternative treatments were nearly five times more likely to die. For those with non-metastatic lung cancer, the risk more than doubled.
Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a breast oncologist at NYU Langone Hospital, emphasized the importance of early detection in saving lives. She noted that some patients avoid conventional treatments due to fear of side effects, distrust of the medical system, or a desire for control. Many believe natural remedies are safer or more beneficial for their health.
The wellness industry and social media often highlight “natural healing” methods, promoting them as safer alternatives to standard care. This can be appealing to patients facing a frightening diagnosis and growing mistrust.
Dr. Comen pointed out that complementary care can be beneficial if combined with standard treatment. Practices like acupuncture, mindfulness meditation, and yoga can help alleviate treatment-related side effects. There is substantial evidence supporting the role of diet and exercise in improving outcomes and quality of life.
A 2022 study showed that physical activity, when added to treatment, reduces the severity of cancer treatment side effects, decreases fatigue, and positively affects mental health and life quality.
Comen stressed that early, evidence-based treatment is key to improving survival chances, especially for aggressive cancers. Returning to conventional care after trying alternative methods may lead to disease progression beyond the point of effective intervention.
Dr. Lemuel Hackshaw, an emergency medicine chief resident at Mayo Clinic and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit, contributed to this discussion on the importance of evidence-based cancer treatment.
