Canadian Integrative Oncology Research Priorities: Results of a Consensus-Building Process

Background: In Canada, many diverse models of integrative oncology care have emerged in response to the growing number of cancer patients who combine complementary therapies with their conventional medical treatments. The increasing interest in integrative oncology emphasizes the need to engage stakeholders and to work toward consensus on research priorities and a collaborative research agenda. The Integrative Canadian Oncology Research Initiative initiated a consensus-building process to meet that need and to develop an action plan that will implement a Canadian research agenda. Methods: A two-day consensus workshop was held after completion of a Delphi survey and stakeholder interviews. Results: Five interrelated priority research areas were identified as the foundation for a Canadian research agenda: (1) Effectiveness (2) Safety (2) Resource and health services utilization (4) Knowledge translation (5) Developing integrative oncology models. Research is needed within each priority area from a range of different perspectives (for example, patient, practitioner, health system) and in a way that reflects a continuum of integration from the addition of a single complementary interve