A major risk factor for cancer is stress. Stress is so prevalent in our society and contributes to toxic load. If stress was present prior to a cancer diagnosis, it is unlikely that the diagnosis will lead to its dissolution. Cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and confusing, and the disharmony it creates from a mental/emotional standpoint plays a negative impact on the immune system.
Stress management and mind/body medicine is a pivotal component to ANY cancer treatment and must not be overlooked. Stress increases inflammation in the body which weakens the cells of the immune system, yet these are the cells that are circulating the body to seek out and remove abnormal cells. If there is a mutation in the DNA (precursor to cancer development and growth), the immune cells are called on to repair the cells- in the case of stress, the immune cells are much less efficient at doing their repairs. Additionally, stress inhibits natural cell death, a process that occurs in the body if it was unable to repair DNA of a mutated cell.
Stress reduction is essential in order to optimize the immune system. Studies have outlined the importance of stress reduction in the outcome of cancer treatment. When stress is reduced, patients have better prognosis and survival.
There are various tools we use at Polo Health to assist patients with stress reduction. Educating patients on the power of positive intention takes time, but as patients embark on their cancer care journey, they are provided with ongoing support for healing. This includes take home exercises such as deep breathing/mindful meditation, counseling, and adrenal and glandular support to reduce the stress response/negative implications of the stress hormone cortisol.
Polo Health + Longevity Centre
711 Columbia Street
New Westminster, BC V3M 1B1
Located in the Heart of New Westminster, BC
and proudly serving Vancouver and the
entire lower mainland,
T: 604-544-7656
F: 604-544-7657
E: info@polohealth.com