Oncology Acupuncture Toronto

Are you or anyone you know facing metastatic (Stage 4) breast cancer? If so, Pauline Sok Yin Hwang, Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist, will be giving a free online talk next Monday May 13th at 7 pm Eastern Daytime time.

The talk will draw from Pauline's experience using Chinese medicine to support breast cancer patients through various stages and treatment plans. In addition to her diplomas in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Pauline completed a 3-year full time Master's degree in Medicine at the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, specializing in internal medicine and integrative oncology. Her thesis focused on the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine into conventional breast cancer treatment, such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and immunotherapy.

This session is for a CLOSED support group, so please email us at [email protected] if you'd like to be invited. Again, this event is ONLY for people with METASTATIC (STAGE 4)

Is it true that Chinese Medicine can improve prognosis in breast cancer? Can taking Chinese herbs help breast cancer patients live longer, and reduce the risk of death? Some researchers have looked at this question and found promising results.

Research Suggesting that Chinese Medicine Can Improve Prognosis in Breast Cancer

Taiwan has a comprehensive nationwide health database, including both biomedical and TCM treatments. Because of this, it’s has been the subject of several population-based cohort studies. One study, published in Cancer in 2014, examined 729 advanced breast cancer patients receiving taxanes. It found that TCM users had a decreased risk of all-cause mortality than non-users. A stronger effect was seen among those who used the TCM for more than 180 days per year. Among the frequently used Chinese herbs, those found to be most associated with reduced mortality were Bai Hua She She Cao, Ban Zhi Lian, and Huang Qi.

In 2020, a prospective cohort study of 45 patients found that breast cancer patients treated with combined conventional and TCM treatment had higher red blood cell counts, better liver function, better QoL in some respects (i.e. fatigue, sleep disturbance and mucositis), and longer overall survival rates on average.

Finally, a 2023 study found that the use of TCM was associated with better survival measures in Stage IV breast cancer patients specifically. In other words, the use of TCM may be associated with better outcomes not only in quality of life and palliative measure, but also in terms of prognosis, although the latter association is based only on preliminary studies and merits more rigorous research. In terms of the specific herbal medicines associated with survival in this study, Zhi Gan Cao Tang, Huang Bai and Chi Shao were the 3 most commonly prescribed herbal medicines correlated with a higher survival rate.

Do Breast Cancer Patients Using Chinese Herbs Stop Hormone Therapy?

One concern from conventional doctors may be that when patients use of complementary and alternative medicine, they are less likely to stick to their conventional treatment regimes. A 2021 study looked at the effects of TCM on medical adherence to hormonal therapy (as measured by medication possession ratios or MPR) and on the survival outcome of ER+ breast cancer patients. It found no impact of TCM use on MPR. Meanwhile, both TCM use and MPR were significantly associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer-associated mortality. Furthermore, patients with more intensive use of TCM (more visits and more days of Chinese herbal use per year) had a more significant reduction in mortality risk than patients who used TCM less often.

Read more: https://hillgreen.ca/breastcancer

Do you have Metastatic Breast Cancer? Join Pauline on Zoom May 13th at 7 pm EDT, for a free introduction to Chinese medicine for breast cancer. Email [email protected] to sign up!

References:

Lee YW, Chen TL, Shih YR, Tsai CL, Chang CC, Liang HH, Tseng SH, Chien SC, Wang CC. Adjunctive traditional Chinese medicine therapy improves survival in patients with advanced breast cancer: a population-based study. Cancer. 2014 May 1;120(9):1338-44. doi: 10.1002/cncr.28579. Epub 2014 Feb 3. PMID: 24496917.

Lee YC, Chen YH, Huang YC, Lee YF, Tsai MY. Effectiveness of Combined Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine on the Prognosis of Patients with Breast Cancer. J Altern Complement Med. 2020 Sep;26(9):833-840. doi: 10.1089/acm.2019.0200. PMID: 32924556.

Chan PW, Chiu JH, Huang N, Chen CM, Yu H, Liu CY, Hsu CH. Influence of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Medical Adherence and Outcome in Estrogen Receptor (+) Breast Cancer Patients in Taiwan: A Real-World Population-Based Cohort Study. Phytomedicine. 2021 Jan;80:153365. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153365. Epub 2020 Oct 2. PMID: 33126168.

Chen PE, Hung HH, Huang WT, Yeh CH, Kao YW, Shia BC, Huang ST. Chinese Herbal Medicine Improved Survival in Stage IV Breast Cancer Patients: Data Mining of the Incorporated Taiwan Cancer Registry Database and Hospital Database. Integr Cancer Ther. 2023 Jan-Dec;22:15347354231178898. doi: 10.1177/15347354231178898. PMID: 37278256; PMCID: PMC10262619.

Attention herbal medicine fans and all health care providers working with cancer patients! Check out this article by Hillgreen’s founder, Pauline Sok Yin Hwang published last fall in the Journal of the American Herbalists Guild.

Titled “Chinese Herbal Medicine for Oncology,” Pauline’s article explores perspectives in traditional Chinese herbal medicine for cancer care.

First, she looks at the role of herbalists in cancer care, from a harm-reduction and patient-centred point of view. She then introduces the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Oncology, the TCM theory of cancer development, and approaches to diagnosis and creating herbal formulas for cancer patients at different stages or phases of conventional treatment.

This article concludes with examples of specific herbal strategies for different problems faced by those going through cancer.

Link to full article: https://hillgreen.ca/jahg

Chloe Liu (she/her) is a passionate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner with extensive experience in cancer care. She is a radiation therapist at a cancer centre, and has been working with cancer patients and their families for over ten years.

She supports patients to ease cancer-related or treatment-induced symptoms, such as cancer pain, nausea & vomiting, fatigue, low blood count, lack of appetite, weak digestive function, diarrhea, constipation, hot flashes, peripheral neuropathy, dry mouth, cough, tinnitus, etc., and has also provided counselling and emotional support.

In addition to cancer support, Chloe also excels in treating acute and chronic pain, emotional and sleep disorders, digestive issues, urinary and water metabolism issues, neurological, hormonal, autoimmune, and many other conditions.

Chloe has a Traditional Chinese Medicine Diploma from John & Jenny TCM College, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Graduate Certificate from Michener Institute, a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Medical Radiation Science from University of Toronto, has completed extensive coursework in Molecular Genetics, and has also worked as a Research Analyst.

Chloe has also completed the "Advances in Oncology Acupuncture: Clinical Research and Side Effect Management" course at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She is registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario, as well as with the College of Medical Radiation and Imaging Technologists of Ontario.

About working with cancer patients, Chloe says, "I witness their suffering and struggles, and I help them cope with their challenges…. I hope that through our work, we can raise more awareness, acceptance and appreciation for TCM in cancer care, among both hospital systems and cancer patients, as well as promote a more integrative approach to cancer treatment and symptom management."

Black History Month and herbalism as a form of resistance!

Only a couple of spots left!
Register at
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/798766581347?aff=oddtdtcreator

We're thrilled to welcome Michelle Qian Qiu to our staff team in Vaughan! Michelle has 10 years of professional experience as a Chinese Medicine clinician, plus 8 years of study in the field, completing both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Chinese medicine from the Liao Ning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Michelle prescribes herbs and performs advanced acupuncture techniques, for cancer support as well as pain management, neurology, fertility, digestion, etc. As a physician in China, she worked in outpatient and inpatient care, including significant emergency room experience. She receives rave reviews from her patients for her warm, attentive and enthusiastic care.

REPOST: Thanks to for their research-based infographic on Integrative Therapies for General Cancer and Musculoskeletal Pain! Did you know acupuncture and acupressure are among the most effective complementary and alternative therapies for pain - both cancer-specific and general musculoskeletal pain?

Their text reads: "Very common among patients and can persist for years after cancer treatment. Pain management requires an interdisciplinary approach.

What can help?

Acupuncture: Use of very thin needles through skin at strategic points on the body to balance one's energy.

Hatha Yoga: Physical postures, breathing and meditation used to reduce stress and harmonize the mind and body.

Reflexology/acupressure: Gentle pressure to specific body points used to reduce stress and improve functioning.

Massage Therapy: Manipulation of the body's soft tissues to promote relaxation, improve blood flow, and relieve muscle tension

Guided imagery: A type of focused relaxation used for stress reduction.

Get more info here (see link in our bio or scan their QR code!)"

Happy new year! Blessings to all of you, for your peace of mind, moments of wellness, connection, insights and joy this coming year ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Are you or someone you know exploring complementary therapies alongside conventional cancer treatments?

While going through chemotherapy, paying attention to herb-drug interactions are very important! Make sure you're doing this under the guidance of a trained herbalist.

This medical article delves into the pharmacokinetics of some of the most commonly use Chinese herbs and formulas for cancer patients.

Top 3 Formulas:

1. Xiang-Sha-Liu-Jun-Zi-Tang
2. Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San
3. Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi-Tang

Top 3 Single Herbs:

1. Hedyotis diffusa
2. Scutellaria barbata
3. Astragalus membranaceus

Read it here (link in bio): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1021949818300310

Jude Yahfoufi exudes kindness, warmth and positivity! She is a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Registered Acupuncturist, who has completed the advanced diploma in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine at Eight Branches. She is qualified to prescribe Chinese herbs and perform advanced acupuncture techniques. Jude has also dedicated herself to further training in her two areas of interest, oncology and neurology, and is currently pursuing a certificate in holistic nutrition.

The spark for her deep interest in oncology was the diagnosis of a close family member which made a huge impact on her. Seeing the difficulties he faced, and realizing how crucial it is to provide holistic, patient-centred care to those with cancer, inspired her to focus on this area. Her dedication to comprehensive healthcare extends to oncology, neurological conditions, reproductive health issues, autoimmune disorders, and pain conditions. Jude and her evident love for Oriental medicine is raved about by all who have worked with her.

For more information, see https://oncologyacupuncture.ca/jude

Book your free consultation with Jude today at 647-933-0807 or email [email protected]!

One of the best unintended side effects of acupuncture is connecting us to our own bodies, which often get neglected or forgotten in our daily stress. Somatic practices also help to do this and can be immensely powerful. Check out this easy one to fit into your routine!

This powerful somatic practice stimulates the thymus gland. It plays an important role in:

- our immune system
- maturation of T Cells (this process protects from autoimmune diseases)
- hormonal regulation

As we age, the thymus tends to shrink as does our immune response. Thymus thumping is a great way to keep stimulating the gland.

Besides obvious biological benefits, somatic practices like this one reconnect us with our body. When we focus our attention on how our body is feeling, we create a stronger mind-body connection that promotes healing at a deep level.

If you’re interested in learning more somatic practices, consider working 1:1 with a somatic therapist or practitioner. Browse our Somatic Practitioner & Therapist Directory to find the one that will support you in your healing journey. Link in bio.

Most people feel relaxed, clearer and calmed after an acupuncture treatment.

Occasionally, your symptoms may increase for a day or two before improving – don’t worry, it’s a temporary effect. (It’s like how you might feel more sore after a massage, or worse at the beginning of a dietary cleanse.)

Finally, some people occasionally experience an ’emotional release’ during or after treatment, such as crying, and often feel lighter and calmer after the release.

You might want to take it easy for the rest of the day, take an epsom salt bath that night if you can, and drink a lot of water (ask your practitioner for specific instructions). But most people are able to return to their regular activities that day without issue.

Discover the healing power of acupressure!

A recent study shows that breast cancer survivors can find relief from depression, anxiety, pain, sleep issues, and fatigue through self-acupressure.

In this research, 288 participants were divided into three groups: usual care, usual care with "Relaxing Acupressure," and usual care with "Stimulating Acupressure." They performed daily self-acupressure for 3 minutes over six weeks.

Results revealed that both acupressure types helped with anxiety, with "Stimulating Acupressure" providing longer-lasting effects. "Relaxing Acupressure" was better for pain severity, while "Stimulating Acupressure" helped more with pain interference. For depressive symptoms, "Relaxing Acupressure" had a significant impact.

Self-acupressure can be a valuable tool for breast cancer survivors, offering a better quality of life. Learn these techniques at our free workshop on March 26, 2019. Consult a TCM practitioner for specific medical concerns.

Read the full article here: https://oncologyacupuncture.ca/blog/acupressure-helps-with-depression-anxiety-pain-sleep-and-fatigue-in-breast-cancer-survivors/

Hand-Foot Syndrome (HFS) after chemotherapy drugs can be a major drag.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has it’s own understanding of “Heat” and “Toxicity” in the body. TCM treatments work by harnessing the body’s natural healing abilities to help release some of this “Heat” and “Toxin” and relieve the symptoms of HFS sooner.

We have found from clinical experience that our patients with HFS benefit from regular acupuncture over several weeks. Electro-acupuncture may be used as well as some topical or oral herbal therapies.

Read the full blog post here:https://oncologyacupuncture.ca/blog/cancer/care-for-hand-foot-syndrome-hfs/

During the winter it is important that you stay on top of your diet and keep yourself well-nourished. Sticking to a healthy diet won't prevent you from picking up winter illnesses, but it can help maintain your immune system to better protect you.

Here are 5 tips to keep in mind when you're thinking about food this winter season:
1. How we eat is at least as important as what
2. Include the 5 flavours daily, but slightly more salty and bitter flavours in the winter
3. Eat to minimize ‘Dampness‘
4. Eat warmer and protect your digestive & life fire
5. Be Kind to your Kidneys

Read more here: https://oncologyacupuncture.ca/blog/5-winter-food-tips/

In support of the SIO ASCO guidelines on integrative therapies for chemotherapy-related (CIPN) released in 2023, we created a simple image summarizing the key message of the guidelines. Acupuncture and acupressure/refloxology can help reduce numbness/tingling/pain from CIPN! Please share and repost freely.

Curious about acupuncture? Here's what you need to know!

Comfortable and Relaxing: Acupuncture is often a peaceful experience. Many find it so calming that they even drift off to sleep during treatment. And if needles make you nervous, rest assured—they're incredibly thin, thinner than a hair, and cause minimal to no sensation upon insertion.

Personalized Care: Our approach starts with a thorough diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. During your initial consultation, we delve into your health history and perform examinations like tongue and pulse checks. It typically lasts about 90 minutes and includes an acupuncture session. Follow-up appointments take around 60 minutes, involving a re-assessment and acupuncture. The recommended course of treatment varies, but we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Safety First: Acupuncture is remarkably safe, with serious issues being rare, especially when administered by well-trained professionals. We prioritize your safety and adhere to the highest standards. Our needles are top-quality, sterile, and disposable, following strict Clean Needle Technique protocols. We also stay up-to-date with scientific evidence to ensure our recommendations align with your medications.

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you on your healing journey!

We are here for anyone whose life has been affected by cancer.

You’re welcome whether you’re currently undergoing active cancer therapies or if you would like to focus on recovery, prevention and wellness.

All our practitioners have advanced training to support patients through surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, precancerous conditions, or palliative care.

Family members, caregivers, friends and loved ones are more than welcome, recognizing that the physical and emotional impacts of cancer go beyond any one individual.