Mark Gignac, ND, FABNO, MSA – Naturopathic Physician
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Dr. Mark Gignac, naturopathic physician, has devoted much of his life to the study of natural medicine, specializing in naturopathic cancer care. He has been practicing at Seattle Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center since it was founded in 1997.
“Because of the complexity of cancer and confusion over the role of natural medicine in treating the disease, patients looking for natural options to support their treatment often don’t know where to turn,” Dr. Gignac says.
Dr. Gignac’s certification as a Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology (FABNO) helps patients differentiate between general-practice naturopaths and those with a specialized knowledge of oncology, including the disease process, cancer medications, and natural medicines that boost immunity and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy.
Dr. Gignac’s formal education into natural medicine began with a seven-year tutelage under Alma R. Hutchens, author of Indian Herbology of North America. He went on to earn a degree in Nutritional Biochemistry from the University of Ottawa, Canada, and pursue graduate studies in nutrition and human physiology at the University of Windsor.
Dr. Gignac received his doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University in 1992 and his master’s degree in acupuncture in 1996. After graduating from Bastyr, he was involved in several research studies on natural medicines with Bastyr and collaborating pharmaceutical companies.
He is currently a guest lecturer and part-time faculty member at Bastyr, focusing on naturopathic oncology, naturopathic philosophy and the history of naturopathic medicine. He has also lectured at numerous conferences around the country on naturopathic approaches to cancer treatment and been featured on Seattle area television and radio segments.
“What this clinic has are naturopaths, acupuncturists and social workers who really specialize in cancer care,” says Dr. Gignac, who is a member of the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Dr. Gignac’s deep interest in the spiritual aspects of cancer and cancer treatment has him traveling frequently to the Brazilian Amazon to further his study of indigenous healing and spiritual practices.
“To effectively treat cancer, you have to cast as wide of a net as possible,” he says. “That means doing innovative oncology alongside the best in supportive therapies, addressing not just the physical, but the psychological, emotional and spiritual realms as well.”
Other Naturopathic Medicine Clinicians at Seattle Clinic
- Letitia Cain, ND, FABNO
Naturopathic Physician - Paul Reilly, ND, FABNO, LAc
Naturopathic Physician
