A Heckler on my Webinar
The web talk was well-received last week. I covered the applications for acupuncture during cancer treatment, and recovery phase. Sources included the research from such prestigious sites as MD Anderson, Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, and Sloan Kettering. I cited the work of Keith Block, MD from Chicago, a leader in integrative oncology. But during the Q/A at the end “Frank” a “retired MD” took issue with acupuncture stating that “nothing has changed in 50 years” and this is “all hocus pocus” (I sensed that he wanted to use a stronger phrase) and no better than hypnosis. I replied that I respected his opinion, but knew of hundreds of colleagues around the country who practiced acupuncture every day and saw clinical results. “Well, maybe one in 200 would fall for this, but most doctors are TOO HONEST!” after which he hung up. The moderator apologized, but I felt and stated that it was educational to hear first hand that such opinions do exist, and may be all too common among Western physicians. The rest of the questions were thoughtful and sincere. Several came from cancer patients, and some from nurses and caregivers. So heckle away, those who protest. You will not dissuade the advance of Integrative Medicine.