Pune: Recent studies highlight that elderly individuals above 65 years face an 11-fold higher risk of developing cancer compared to younger people. The branch of medicine dedicated to understanding the causes, treatment, drugs, and cancer research in the elderly is known as 'geriatric oncology.' The research team included Dr. Yogesh Bendale, Dr. Avinash Kadam, Dr. Poonam Gawande, Dr. Dhanashree Ingle, and the Rasayu Cancer Clinic team.

This emerging field is gaining recognition globally, especially in Western countries, but remains underexplored in developing nations like India. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 61% of all cancer cases occur in elderly patients. However, participation in clinical trials among this age group is minimal. With age-related chronic diseases and reduced immunity posing significant challenges, the need for effective treatment options in geriatric oncology is critical.

For over 28 years, Rasayu Clinic has offered Ayurvedic treatments for cancer and other chronic diseases, particularly for conditions where Western medicine has limitations or is undesired by patients. Rasayu Clinic has published over 77 research papers globally. The latest findings of a study they conducted were recently published in the esteemed Journal of 'Clinical Oncology' during the 'American Society of Clinical Oncology 2024' conference in Chicago. The study found that Ayurvedic therapy is safe and effective for elderly cancer patients.

Purpose of the Research

This research aimed to address the challenges faced by elderly cancer patients who either cannot undergo Western medical treatments due to other comorbidities or experience significant side effects that necessitate discontinuation of treatment. This study sought to explore alternative treatment options for older cancer patients, particularly those in advanced stages, given the limitations of existing treatments and some patients' reluctance to undergo conventional anticancer therapies.

Research Objectives

The primary objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Rasayu’s Ayurvedic cancer therapy in patients above 65 years of age who also suffer from chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes alongside cancer.

Methodology

The study spanned from 2020 to 2023 and involved elderly patients with cancer and other chronic diseases. A total of 167 eligible patients were included in the study.

Only patients with advanced stages of cancer who had undergone Ayurvedic therapy for six months or more were included. The quality of life (QOL) of patients was assessed three and six months after starting therapy using global parameters like FACT-G, ECOG, and HADS.

Research Findings

Significant improvement was seen in the quality of life (QOL) of patients. Reduced anxiety and depression, leading to a positive outlook and increased resilience against the disease. Ayurvedic Rasayan treatments were proven safe, tolerable, and effective across various global test parameters. The home-administered nature of Ayurvedic therapy made it accessible to elderly patients with advanced-stage cancer. This study suggests that Rasayana therapy can be a viable option for elderly and advanced-stage cancer patients. Further research is necessary to extend the benefits to a broader patient population.

Dr. Yogesh Bendale said, "The natural degeneration and decline in overall health status associated with old age necessitates a patient-centered treatment system based on robust scientific criteria, especially for cancer patients and those in advanced stages who have very limited treatment options, don’t respond satisfactorily to conventional therapies or face limitations and side effects from Western medical treatments. Ayurveda Rasayan therapy provides valuable options for these segments of society, offering improved patient satisfaction and quality of life. This work reflects the research-driven approach of Rasayu Cancer Clinic."