PSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION STRATEGIES FOR CANCER PATIENTS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF TUMOR COLLATERAL DISEASE THEORY

Abstract Objective Based on tumor collateral disease theory, it established a Traditional Chinese Medicine psychological rehabilitation system targeting the core pathogenesis of psychological issues in cancer patients to improve emotional well-being and optimize the microenvironment of collaterals. Methods With cancer patients as research subjects, grounded in the holistic perspective of “collaterals-qi and blood-viscera-spirit” and the concept of “unity of body and mind” from the theory of tumor collateral disease, we mapped the patterns of psychological evolution and analyzed the characteristics of collateral disease at each corresponding stage. Results This article has established a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) psychological rehabilitation system centered on “unblocking qi channels, harmonizing emotions, and promoting holistic physical and mental wellness.” This system integrates TCM psychological therapies-including persuasion and counseling, emotional transference, suggestive guidance, accommodating desires, and countering emotions with emotions—with specialized meridian-related interventions methods such as bloodletting therapy, moxibustion to fortify meridians, herbal tea conditioning, and acupressure. Together, these form a rehabilitation strategy based on “phased treatment, syndrome differentiation-based application, and simultaneous treatment of meridians and collaterals.” simultaneous treatment of collaterals and meridians.” Conclusion This system can improve patients’ emotional status and optimize the microenvironment of the collaterals. In the future, it is necessary to improve the system through high-quality research and mechanism exploration, so as to provide more accurate solutions for the psychological rehabilitation of cancer patients. Acknowledgments National Program for Strengthening Specialized Departments in Traditional Chinese Medicine State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Letter [2024] No. 90.