Cancer and Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation (PBM), a therapy using red and near-infrared light to promote healing, has grown in popularity for a multitude of health challenges from infertility to chronic pain and even post-surgery recovery. But when it comes to cancer, the discussion gets more nuanced. Understandably, people worry: Could PBM increase the growth of cancer cells, or is it safe to use alongside cancer treatments? Let’s take a look at the most recent research.
Is PBM Safe Alongside Cancer Treatments?
What Research Says
PBM has been extensively studied for its effects on cancer cells, tumour growth, and overall treatment outcomes. Here's what they discovered:
Clinical research demonstrates that, when administered within recommended guidelines, PBM does not accelerate tumor growth or raise the chance of recurrence.
PBM at energy levels ranging from 4-24 J/cm² every session over one month has been demonstrated to safely reduce treatment side effects, including cancer.
Mixed Results in Lab Studies:
In lab settings (in vitro), PBM can sometimes induce cancer cell proliferation at extremely high dosages or under improper conditions.
However, the same effects have not been routinely duplicated in animal studies or human trials because the complex tumor environment interacts differently.
How Does PBM Affect Cancer Cells?
Picture a crowded store on Black Friday - where everyone is frantically running around looking for the best deals. That’s how cancer cells operate—fast and chaotic. PBM can calm this chaos by boosting ATP (cell energy) in healthy cells, helping them repair and function better. In contrast, cancer cells, which rely on inefficient processes like glycolysis (a bit like using a leaky battery), don’t benefit as much from PBM. In some studies, PBM has even been shown to promote cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells.
Clinical Outcomes
Retrospective and prospective studies show that PBM within specific dosages did not increase tumor recurrence or growth. Instead, it significantly improved treatment-related side effects such as oral mucositis, pain, and inflammation. UK clinical guidelines now incorporate PBM as a preventative treatment for oral mucositis and there is a growing body of research on the benefits of PBM and breast cancer-related lymphedema.
At Home Use
If you use PBM at home, be cautious of the dosage and treatment settings to ensure safety and efficacy if you have a history of cancer. While photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy has numerous potential benefits, inappropriate application may result in unforeseen consequences.
Safety Guidelines for At-Home PBM Therapy
Start low and go slow: Start with shorter treatment sessions and lower energy densities, especially if you're new to light therapy.
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines: Carefully read the instructions that came with your device. Consider recommended energy densities (J/cm²) and session durations.
Avoid overexposure: more isn't always better. Using PBM too frequently or in high quantities may negate its benefits or have undesirable side effects, especially if you're targeting sensitive regions or have underlying health concerns.
Monitor your response: Keep track of your body's reactions to each session. If you detect any unusual side effects, stop use and speak to a light specialist.
Be cautious with tumors. If you have a history of cancer or suspect any suspicious growths, seek medical advice before using PBM. According to research, poor dosimetry may alter specific cell proliferation pathways.
Email me with any questions.
Tracy
References:
Safety and efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in oncology: A systematic review (2020)
