Let There Be Light The Role of Photobiomodulation in Supportive Cancer Care

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most prevalent disorders of the twenty-first century, and its incidence is expected to keep increasing due to longer life expectancies, population growth, and a higher exposure to risk factors. Over the years, advancements in cancer treatment have resulted in a rise in cancer survivors, which necessitates a shift of focus to the short- and long-term side effects of these treatments. These treatment-related adverse events severely impact the patient’s health-related quality of life (HRQL) and sexual functioning, which may affect their overall treatment outcome. Photobiomodulation, or PBM, could be the missing factor in current supportive cancer care strategies. PBM utilises visible and near-infrared light to trigger molecular and cellular effects, promoting tissue repair, reducing pain and oedema, and modulating inflammatory processes. Therefore, this thesis tried to improve supportive cancer care by evaluating whether PBM could be implemented in the management of cancer treatmentrelated side effects.