Naturopathic Treatment for Melanoma

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., accounting for approximately half of all new cases, according to the American Cancer Society. Melanoma is the most dangerous of the three types of skin cancer.

Expert Insight

Currently, 14 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico require naturopathic doctors (N.D.) to obtain a license. When considering naturopathic treatment, be sure to find a practitioner who graduated from a residential program approved by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Treatment

Naturopathic treatment for melanoma is based on a "whole person" approach and could include a detoxification regimen, nutritional modification and supplementation, exercise management and instruction in life-balance practices. Herbs are often also employed.

Considerations

Treatment options depend on factors such as lesion size, stage of the cancer and the patient's age and general state of health.

Nutrition

Most naturopathic treatment plans include dietary changes to focus on cancer-beating foods. Soy, for instance, contains compounds that have been shown to slow the rate at which melanoma metastasizes and is often recommended.

Research

A study published in the Sept. 14 issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that boosting levels of vitamin D may be crucial to preventing and treating melanoma. Vitamin D is metabolized from exposure to the sun and ingestion of supplements, fatty fish or fortified cereals.

References

• American Cancer Society: Skin Cancer Facts
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Naturopathy
• Melanoma Patients Information Page