Exploring Natural Approaches for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Key Facts
In the fight against Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a type of cancer that primarily affects adults and is one of the most aggressive forms of leukemia, several natural compounds are showing potential as adjunctive treatments alongside chemotherapy.
AML is a disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to a deficiency in healthy blood cells. This condition, known as neutropenia, makes individuals more susceptible to infections. The Leukemia & Lymyphoma Society recommends a neutropenic diet for those with neutropenia or at risk, involving avoidance of raw or undercooked foods, washing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding soft cheeses, among other precautions.
One natural compound, Harringtonine, derived from the Cephalotaxus plant, has demonstrated strong efficacy against leukemia and is already in clinical use for acute leukemia treatment, including AML. Clinical studies show that Harringtonine is effective and is used in treatment protocols for AML, indicating tangible benefit beyond experimental stages.
Other natural compounds, such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and sulforaphane, have been assessed for their ability to target cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are thought to contribute to AML relapse and resistance. Their effect mainly involves inhibiting pathways essential for CSC survival and proliferation, potentially enhancing chemotherapy effectiveness. However, robust clinical trial data confirming improvements in survival or remission duration in AML patients are still limited.
Immunotherapy combined with hypomethylating agents such as decitabine can restore immune cell function in AML and improve treatment outcomes by modifying the bone marrow microenvironment. While this is primarily a pharmacological rather than strictly natural intervention, the concept is analogous to boosting the natural immune response.
While some natural compounds like Harringtonine are integrated into AML treatment due to proven efficacy, others (curcumin, resveratrol, EGCG, sulforaphane) remain investigational adjuncts with potential to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness by targeting leukemia stem cells. Combining natural immunomodulatory strategies with standard chemotherapy may also improve outcomes but requires further clinical validation.
It is crucial for patients to discuss any use of natural compounds alongside chemotherapy with their oncologists due to possible interactions and the need for integrated, evidence-based therapeutic planning.
Radiation therapy targets cancer cells but can also kill healthy cells. Doctors usually use radiation therapy when AML spreads beyond the bone marrow or as a treatment before a stem cell transplant. A stem cell transplant uses bone marrow from a healthy donor to help the body and immune system recover after high doses of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Other potential treatments include targeted therapy drugs, such as IDH inhibitors and FLT3 inhibitors, which can kill cancer cells like chemotherapy but target cancer cells instead of healthy cells. However, it's important to note that there is no evidence that natural remedies can cure AML.
Exercise may improve overall health and ease some symptoms of AML, but it does not necessarily improve mental health symptoms, fatigue, or enhance the quality of life. Acupuncture, drawing on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles, may improve symptoms of AML, such as reducing the need for pain relief medication.
For those diagnosed with AML, it is essential to seek medical help as soon as possible, as it is impossible to diagnose AML based on symptoms alone. An oncologist can help with comparing treatment options and deciding when and whether to stop chemotherapy. Support is also available through local support groups, therapists who specialize in serious and terminal diagnoses, online support groups, talking with friends and family about end-of-life goals, speaking with a lawyer about financial and estate issues, and discussing treatment goals with a doctor.
- Science continues to explore the use of natural compounds like Harringtonine for the treatment of other leukemias.
- Chemotherapy often leaves patients susceptible to chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, COPD, and type-2 diabetes.
- Sleep is crucial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy as it aids in recovery and helps cope with side effects.
- The workplace-wellness program can play a significant role in assisting employees dealing with medical conditions arising from chemotherapy.
- Eye-health, hearing, and skin-care are often overlooked aspects of health-and-wellness during cancer treatment.
- Fitness-and-exercise remains important for maintaining overall health during cancer treatment, but caution should be taken to avoid overexertion.
- Sexual-health concerns are prevalent among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and open discussions with healthcare providers are vital.
- Family-health may be affected as caregivers are also at risk of contracting infections or developing chronic-diseases due to exposure to the environment during chemotherapy.
- Alzheimer's disease and autoimmune disorders may manifest or worsen due to treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Mental-health issues such as anxiety and depression are common among cancer patients, and professional help should be sought as needed.
- Mens-health may experience increased risk for cardiovascular-health concerns during cancer treatment and recovery.
- Therapies-and-treatments like CBD have shown potential in managing symptoms associated with chemotherapy and cancer, but further research is needed for its widespread application.
- Aging can exacerbate the side effects of chemotherapy, making it essential to tailor treatments to the individual's specific needs.
- Womens-health, particularly during menopause, may experience unique challenges during cancer treatment, making specialized care important.
- Parenting duties can be impacted by cancer and cancer treatment, requiring support networks and resources to adapt during this difficult period.
- Weight-management is crucial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy, as maintaining a healthy weight may improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
- Multiple-sclerosis and migraine can coexist with cancer, necessitating careful management for optimal care.
- Cardiovascular-health is at risk during cancer treatment, making regular evaluations and lifestyle adjustments essential for long-term well-being.
- Skin-conditions may arise during chemotherapy due to treatment side effects, requiring diligent skin-care to manage symptoms.
- Medication and therapies like decitabine and IDH inhibitors can treat and manage certain neurological conditions along with AML.
- Medicares coverage varies for therapies-and-treatments, making it essential for patients to understand their insurance policies and advocate for their health needs.
