What is stopping us from offering integrative treatments for cancer?

These options are not perfect, have no guarantees and can be hard work – but they can offer new hope and more years. At stage IV, I believe many people would choose to take this ‘integrative’ route. Why not offer it? Some of those people who have followed this route are walking our streets as you read this – in fact I have had lunch with two of them very recently.

Why, when countries such as Germany, France, Italy and America are increasingly using integrative cancer treatment, does the UK – and Guernsey – hang back. Complementary treatments – via tried and tested everyday drugs, supplements and diet – can impact on all types and levels of cancer. These drugs do not appear to be used as part of conventional treatment because, while they may work, they have not been specifically designated for this purpose. However, this approach is effective, affordable and within our grasp. The fact that these drugs are off label (no longer under patent) makes this approach very cost effective. These medicines have also been around a long time and their safety is well established, as long as used under advice in relation to cancer. The main hurdle is to get them prescribed as part of a patient’s overall treatment plan. Could Guernsey be a leader in this field?

Doctors, patients and particularly politicians should listen to the podcasts below.

Hari Kuhan, a leading London-based oncologist, explains more on The Cancer Liberation Project podcast site dated 23 March 2023. https://redcircle.com/shows/the-cancer-liberation-project.

Hari says it was only when he went into research that he saw the real limitations of the current ‘production line’ style of oncology training. Since then Hari has been practising and developing the integrative approach pioneered by London-based Jane McLelland (nee Dorey) a former Bailiff’s daughter. Using existing, tried and tested off-label drugs and diet alongside conventional treatment the aim is to starve the cancer – not you. This is not an either/or option. It can be used at any stage, clearly with potentially better results the earlier treatment starts. Hari’s new practice in Harley Street opens in the New Year and he will consult online. This integrative approach could be offered on island by MSG, potentially saving money as well as lives.

What is stopping us?

On the same site dated 9 March 2023, Jane McLelland talks in more detail about her life and her approach. Jane is a stage IV cervical cancer survivor, dating back 30 years. She is not only an author with the second edition of her book published in 12 languages, but an incredible researcher and international speaker at medical conventions.

Her Facebook site with 100,000 followers is full of invaluable information. If buying her book, ensure that you get the second edition as the first doesn’t have that all-important index. It was with her own research and help from an open-minded oncologist that Jane fought off her cancers, using predominantly readily available off-label drugs and supplements alongside diet and conventional treatment. Should this be a path open to us here in Guernsey?

These drugs and supplements are geared to block the pathways that cancers feed through, then once weakened killing it. Jane’s cancer came back in three further forms, all dealt with by her approach. Do not underrate Jane just because she is not a doctor. She is a powerhouse of knowledge who has gained respect and standing ovations from medics around the world. Jane says she is not cured although in remission since 2004 but she still takes her nightly dose of preventative pills.

In the podcast series Conversations with Jane McLelland, Jane talked with TV presenter Jonnie Irwin about his journey with cancer earlier this year.

Jonnie’s open dialogue about his integrative treatment with his oncologist seems such a healthy way forward, where patients can take a more proactive role in their treatment.

Guernsey as an independent entity could be a world leader in this sphere, uniquely placed to take decisions and act on its own.

Rising death rates from cancer call for a round table conference and an opening of minds to chart a route to more successful outcomes for all patients. I accept that there are some limited risks, but these need to be put in perspective when set against the current landscape. Options exist that save lives and are cost effective. The expertise is uniquely available to Guernsey to steer this to success. What is stopping us?

Bruce Cova MBE

La Conchee

Les Rues

St Saviour’s

GY7 9FN