Pancreatic cancer continues to be one of the most formidable challenges in modern oncology, ranking as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Hong Kong. Due to its deep-seated location in the abdomen, approximately 80% of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, contributing to a sobering five-year survival rate of just 11%. However, a remarkable case shared by Taiwanese Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner Hsu Chung-hua highlights how integrating lifestyle changes and nutritional support can significantly alter a patient’s trajectory.
In a recent medical feature, Dr. Hsu detailed the journey of a woman in her 60s struggling with terminal pancreatic cancer. Despite undergoing surgery and six rounds of chemotherapy, her cancer returned and metastasized throughout her body. Facing a prognosis of only three months without further intensive chemotherapy—which her body was too frail to endure—she pivoted toward a holistic recovery plan. Today, seven years later, she remains cancer-free, attributing her survival to a combination of “vital energy” (Qi) cultivation, a specific vegetable-based soup, and disciplined daily habits.
Strengthening the Foundation: The “Ding Ding” Anti-Cancer Soup
The cornerstone of her dietary regimen was a simple, affordable preparation dubbed the “Anti-Cancer Ding Ding Soup.” The name refers to the “diced” (ding) nature of the ingredients, which prioritize seasonal, whole vegetables to maximize nutrient absorption.
Preparation and Ingredients:
- The Base: A blend of seasonal root vegetables including carrots, white radish (daikon), and sweet potatoes, complemented by dried shiitake mushrooms.
- Method: Dice all vegetables into small cubes. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer until tender.
- Finishing Touch: Once the heat is turned off, add one to three tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
Dr. Hsu emphasizes that while this soup provides essential phytonutrients, patients must also ensure adequate intake of proteins—both plant and animal-based—to maintain the physical stamina required for recovery.
The Power of Routine and Mindfulness
Beyond nutrition, the patient adopted two critical lifestyle pivots that Dr. Hsu believes were instrumental in her “miraculous” recovery:
- Consistent Physical Mobility: Starting from a point of extreme weakness where she could only manage 2,000 steps, the patient gradually worked her way up to 10,000 steps daily (split into morning and evening sessions). Dr. Hsu recommends low-impact activities like Tai Chi or cycling in nature to absorb “positive energy” without overtaxing the muscles.
- Emotional Equilibrium: Maintaining a calm mindset is vital. The patient utilized meditation and ensured at least seven hours of sleep nightly to allow for cellular repair.
Identifying the Silent Warning Signs
Because pancreatic cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages, medical experts from the University of Hong Kong urge the public to remain vigilant regarding “hidden” symptoms. These include:
- Persistent upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
- Unexplained jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin).
- Sudden, significant weight loss.
- Digestive distress, such as frequent bloating or clay-colored stools.
This case serves as a compelling testament to the potential of integrated medicine. By combining the precision of Western diagnostics with TCM’s focus on “nourishing the root,” patients may find new avenues for resilience even when facing the most difficult odds.