Cancer and complementary therapies

Booklet
Published: 31 Oct 2019
Next review: 31 Oct 2022
Edition: 10
The booklet is about complementary therapies. There are many different types of therapy. This booklet is about the most common types used by some people with cancer. 
View online
You can also order a physical copy of this booklet on Macmillan Orders with ID: MAC11645
Published: 31 Oct 2019
Next review: 31 Oct 2022
Edition: 10
The booklet is about complementary therapies. There are many different types of therapy. This booklet is about the most common types used by some people with cancer. 

About this booklet

We hope it gives you a balanced view of what is available and what is involved if you decide to try one.

We cannot advise you about the best treatment for you. You should talk to your doctor, who knows your medical history. It is important to tell your cancer doctor if you are thinking of using, or are already using, any complementary or alternative therapy. Always tell your therapist that you have cancer.

You might be advised not to have complementary therapies. This is because it is not safe to have them if you have a certain type of cancer, or if you are having certain treatments. Your healthcare team can give you more information about this.

Visit our online information about cancer and complementary therapies.

Tag: LIFST, SDEF, GENS

How we can help

Macmillan Support Line
The Macmillan Support Line is a free and confidential phone service for people living and affected by cancer. If you need to talk, we'll listen. 

 

Clinical Information Nurse Specialists
Our Cancer Information Nurse Specialists are dedicated cancer nurses available to talk to on our Macmillan Cancer Support Line. 
Welfare rights advice and tools

There are lots of benefits that could help you after a cancer diagnosis, but the system can be confusing. Our Welfare Rights Advisors are here to help.