Observational study on the intersection of Ayurgenomics, deha prakriti, and yoga therapy in cancer oncology

ABSTRACT Background: Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine and yoga is the ancient Indian style of living. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the role of individual constitution (deha prakriti) in health. Modern Ayurgenomics integrates Ayurvedic principles with genomic analysis, aiming to personalize yogic interventions for cancer patients. Aim: The current study aims to explore the intersection of Ayurgenomics, deha prakriti, and yoga therapy in the context of cancer oncology. Method: The study included 60 chemotherapy patients admitted to the oncology department, with no exclusion based on cancer type, stage, or demographics. Using AyuSoft, an application developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, each patient’s deha prakriti was assessed. Based on their anatomical, physiological, and psychological traits, AyuSoft divides patients into 10 combinations of vata, pitta, or kapha on the basis of the dominance of Prakriti. The data were systematically recorded and analyzed to observe any correlation between Prakriti type and chemotherapy response. Result: Our observational findings revealed that vata-dominant patients required more immediate intervention due to rapid tumor growth, while pitta-dominant patients were more susceptible to chemotherapy side effects. Patients who were dominant in the kapha prakriti showed less immediate concern due to slower tumor growth. Furthermore, the loss of vitality during chemotherapy can be better managed through appropriate yogic interventions and dietary adjustments when the patient’s Prakriti is identified. Conclusion: The study highlights the growing relevance of integrating traditional Eastern wisdom, such as Ayurveda, with Western scientific approaches in the rapidly evolving field of individualized medicine. It emphasizes the potential of combining Ayurveda with genetic technology for individualized cancer therapy. Ayurgenomics could pave the way for more targeted yogic interventions, aligning an individual’s genetic and constitutional profiles to enhance therapeutic outcomes in oncology.