Alfred Laengler

Biography and Expertise of Alfred Laengler

Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler stands at the forefront of integrative medicine in Europe, with a distinguished career focused on the most vulnerable of patients: children with cancer. As the head of the only European department for Integrative Pediatric Oncology, he has established a landmark program that thoughtfully combines conventional oncological treatments with complementary therapies. His approach is rooted in rigorous scientific validation and a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for young patients and their families. This philosophy directly supports the congress motto pillar of fostering “Well-being Societies” by prioritizing holistic care from an early age.

His work offers a compelling case study for the 3rd WCTCIM’s Thematic Axis, “TCIM Across the Lifespan,” demonstrating how integrative principles can be applied effectively in pediatrics. Furthermore, Professor Laengler’s efforts to institutionalize these practices within a major German hospital align perfectly with the axis on the “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems.” He provides a functional blueprint for how specialized clinical departments can serve as centers of excellence, translating evidence into standard practice.

The expertise of Alfred Laengler also resonates strongly with the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which emphasizes the importance of evidence in traditional medicine. By researching and implementing therapies such as homeopathy and nutritional interventions within a controlled, clinical setting, he contributes vital data to the global evidence base. Therefore, his work is not merely clinical practice but a robust academic endeavor to build a safer, more effective, and more compassionate future for pediatric medicine.

Professional Career

Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler’s professional journey reflects a steadfast commitment to building and leading institutions that embody the principles of integrative medicine. His career is characterized by a progression from specialized clinical training to significant leadership roles, where he now shapes the strategy and practice of pediatric care on a national level. His trajectory showcases a unique ability to operate at the intersection of clinical medicine, academic research, and healthcare management.

This path has allowed him to not only treat patients but also to create sustainable systems of care that will endure and expand. Consequently, his leadership provides a powerful example of how to institutionalize integrative health within established medical frameworks.

• 2013 – Present: Medical Director and member of the board of directors of the Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, where he oversees the hospital’s medical operations and strategic direction.
• Present: Head of the Department for Integrative Pediatric Oncology at the Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, the only such department in Europe, pioneering new models of care.
• Present: Professor for Integrative Pediatrics at Witten/Herdecke University, responsible for educating the next generation of medical professionals in this specialized field.
• Previous Roles: Completed specialist training as a pediatrician at several respected institutions, including the Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, the Hamm Protestant Hospital, and the University of Cologne, where he specialized in pediatric oncology.

Academic Qualifications

The academic foundation of Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler was meticulously built to support his vision of a more holistic and evidence-based pediatric medicine. His education began at a university known for its innovative and humanistic approach to medical training and culminated in a professorship at the same institution, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to its principles. This comprehensive training provides him with the dual lenses of a compassionate clinician and a rigorous academic.

Each academic milestone was a deliberate step toward acquiring the necessary expertise to challenge the status quo and build a credible, scientifically grounded practice of integrative oncology. His qualifications are therefore a testament to his pioneering spirit.

• Professorship for Integrative Pediatrics: Awarded by Witten/Herdecke University, this position recognizes his leading expertise and authorizes him to teach and conduct high-level research in the field.
• Specialization in Pediatric Oncology: Completed his advanced training at the prestigious University of Cologne, equipping him with the specialist skills to treat children with cancer using conventional methods.
• Specialization in Pediatrics: Underwent foundational training as a pediatrician at multiple hospitals, including the Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, providing him with a broad understanding of child health.
• Medical Degree: Earned his primary medical qualification from Witten/Herdecke University, where he was first introduced to a more integrative and patient-centered view of medicine.

Research and Publications

Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler is a dedicated researcher whose work provides critical evidence for the safe and effective use of complementary therapies in pediatric oncology. His research agenda is driven by clinical reality: many families seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and it is the medical community’s responsibility to guide them with reliable data. His studies address key questions regarding the prevalence of CAM use, the attitudes of healthcare professionals, and the clinical outcomes of specific integrative interventions.

A significant portion of his research investigates the beliefs and practices of pediatric oncologists regarding CAM. By highlighting the need for open communication, his work aims to improve treatment safety and build trust between physicians and families. Moreover, Professor Laengler has co-authored influential studies on the use of complementary treatments for children with cancer in Germany, mapping the landscape of integrative care. This research directly supports the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy’s goal of integrating evidence-based TCIM into healthcare.

Beyond oncology, his research interests extend to child nutrition, with a particular focus on the benefits of breastfeeding and the health implications of vegetarian and vegan diets in childhood. This broad scope demonstrates a holistic view of child well-being. The work of Alfred Laengler in this area provides a scientific foundation for public health recommendations, contributing to the development of healthier future generations.

Board and Committee Activities

Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler extends his influence beyond the clinic and the university through his active participation in key national committees. These roles underscore his status as a trusted expert whose guidance helps shape public health policy and regulatory standards in Germany. His involvement demonstrates a deep commitment to translating specialized knowledge into broad societal benefit, ensuring that integrative principles are upheld at the highest levels of governance.

Through these leadership positions, he advocates for practices that support child health and ensure the safety and quality of complementary therapies. Therefore, his committee work is a vital component of his effort to embed integrative medicine within the fabric of the national healthcare system.

• Head of the National Breastfeeding Committee: Located at the Max Rubner Institute, this prestigious committee advises the German Federal Government on all matters related to breastfeeding. His leadership in this role directly impacts national health guidelines and promotes optimal infant nutrition across the country.
• Member of Commission C for Anthroposophic Medicinal Products: As a member of this commission at the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), he contributes to the official assessment and regulation of anthroposophic therapies, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for safety and quality.

Connect with Dr. Laengler

To further explore the pioneering work and academic contributions of Professor Dr. med. Alfred Laengler, you can access his official profiles on various professional and institutional platforms. These resources offer detailed information on his research, clinical activities, and publications, providing a comprehensive overview of his impact on integrative pediatrics.

Official University Profile: View Profile at Witten/Herdecke University

Hospital Department Profile: View Profile at Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke

ResearchGate Profile: Explore Publications on ResearchGate