INTEGRATING MODERN ONCOLOGY AND AYURVEDA IN BREAST CANCER: A CLINICAL OUTCOMES-FOCUSED REVIEW

Abstract

Context: Integrative oncology aims to enhance quality of life (QoL) and outcomes by integrating conventional cancer therapies that are supported by evidence with conventional medical systems. The ancient Indian medical system known as Ayurveda offers a thorough framework of dietary, herbal, and mind-body therapies that support contemporary oncology.

Goal: To assess clinical data critically regarding the effects of combining Ayurveda and traditional oncology in the treatment of breast cancer, with a focus on quality of life, toxicity, survival, and recurrence.

Techniques: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and systematic reviews assessing integrative (Ayurvedic and oncological) interventions in breast cancer were found through a systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2000–2025). Included were studies that reported clinical endpoints like QoL, recurrence, disease-free survival, and toxicities related to treatment.

Findings: Yoga and mind-body therapies have been shown to improve mood, sleep, fatigue, and quality of life both during and after treatment. Although there are currently few high-quality RCTs, supportive therapies based on Ayurveda and specific herbal preparations show promise for immune modulation and symptom control. There is preliminary evidence that integrative approaches are associated with increased survival or decreased recurrence.

In summary: There is potential to improve treatment tolerance and patient-centered outcomes in breast cancer by combining Ayurveda with contemporary oncology. Additional carefully planned clinical trials are necessary to confirm long-term survival and cost-effectiveness results.