10/29/2026
As part of London Global Cancer Week 2026, CAPhO, Clinical Oncology Society of Australia – Clinical Pharmacists Group (COSA CPG), International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners (ISOPP) and British Oncology Pharmacy Association (BOPA) are joining forces for the second Global Debate on Monday, November 2, 2026 at 14:00 PDT.
Entitled "Eastern and Western Medicine Can Co-exist", the virtual webinar debate will bring together international perspectives on one of the most complex and important questions in contemporary oncology practice.
Many people affected by cancer use complementary therapies or herbal medicines alongside conventional treatment, influenced by cultural traditions, personal beliefs and a desire to improve their wellbeing. However, potential interactions with chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies raise important questions about safety, treatment efficacy and the quality of available evidence.
The affirmative team will argue that complementary and herbal medicines can coexist with conventional cancer treatment, exploring patient autonomy, cultural sensitivity and the potential role of integrative medicine in holistic cancer care. The negative team will challenge this position, examining the risks of drug interactions, treatment-related toxicity and the limitations of the available evidence.
Expect a lively, structured debate in which both teams present their cases, challenge opposing arguments and defend their positions on the central issues. With scientific evidence, cultural perspectives and patient preferences all in the balance, the discussion promises to challenge assumptions about the role of complementary medicine in modern oncology.
Participation is complimentary for CAPhO members, who can register for the virtual debate on BOPA's website. We look forward to seeing you online on Monday, November 2!
https://www.bopa.org.uk/international-debate-webinar-eastern-and-western-medicine-can-co-exist-part-of-london-global-cancer-week-2026/
