A groundbreaking study conducted at Rasayu Cancer Clinic in Pune over nearly a decade has provided clinical evidence of the effectiveness of Ayurveda Rasayana Therapy (ART) in managing advanced pancreatic cancer and extending patient survival.
Study Details and Findings
Led by Dr. Yogesh Bendale, CMD of Rasayu Cancer Clinic, the study involved 17 patients with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer. Published in the international journal Cancer Research (impact factor 16.6), the research spanned from 2015 to 2024. By benchmarking survival data against global peer-reviewed literature, researchers observed that the average survival duration of patients undergoing ART effectively doubled, reaching 10-11 months compared to the typical 3-6 month prognosis.
Methodology and Monitoring
Rigorous radiological investigations, including PET-CT, CT, and MRI scans, were employed to scientifically monitor tumor behavior and treatment response. Dr. Bendale stated, "This study validates that a scientifically-backed ayurvedic approach can significantly extend life expectancy and improve quality of life for pancreatic cancer patients globally."
Impact on Quality of Life
Beyond survival, researchers reported notable improvements in patients' quality of life. Many experienced better appetite, reduced fatigue, and enhanced daily functioning. In nearly 12% of cases, a reduction in tumor size was observed, a significant outcome given the advanced stage of the disease.
Mechanism of Therapy
Dr. Bendale explained that the therapy works by enhancing the body's intrinsic strength and resilience to fight cancer. "In advanced pancreatic cancer, where treatment options are often exhausted, rasayana therapy offers patients a chance to live longer with dignity and improved well-being," he said.
Patients were treated exclusively with ayurvedic rasayana preparations. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the FACT-G questionnaire, and performance status was measured by the ECOG scale at baseline and on day 90. Anorexia was measured using the Anorexia-Cachexia Scale (ACS).
Expert Insights
Dr. Poonam Birari-Gavande, a study team member, emphasized the growing relevance of integrative oncology, where ayurveda not only complements Western medicine but also addresses unmet needs when standard treatments are not feasible. While such integration is increasingly explored globally, experts noted that India still requires stronger collaboration between modern medical practitioners and ayurvedic clinicians.
Other study team members included Dr. Priyanka Shirole and Dr. Avinash Kadam.
