1 Deficiency of righteous qi is the fundamental cause of malignant tumor occurrence and development

1 Deficiency of righteous qi is the fundamental cause of malignant tumor occurrence and development

Based on the “Essential Readings of Medical Classics,” Professor Pei points out that “accumulation arises from deficiency of righteous qi, after which evil qi takes hold.” He emphasizes that deficiency of righteous qi is the fundamental cause of malignant tumor occurrence and development. The essence of righteous qi deficiency lies in the dysfunction of the zang-fu organs and qi-blood circulation, as well as the decline of the body’s own immune function. Evil qi, however, does not merely refer to the six exogenous pathogenic factors, epidemic toxins, dietary indiscretion, or fatigue; it also encompasses pathological changes that arise after righteous qi deficiency, such as phlegm accumulation, dampness stagnation, qi obstruction, blood stasis, and internal heat. Cancer can only develop when there is an imbalance of yin and yang and a depletion of righteous qi—this is what is meant by “where evil gathers, qi must be deficient.” Furthermore, cancer cells and the infections, bleeding, and infarctions they cause in turn affect the function of the zang-fu organs and qi-blood circulation, making righteous qi even more deficient and creating a vicious cycle. This is precisely why malignant tumors are difficult to treat and prone to recurrence. Clinically, many patients may present with symptoms such as masses, fever, abdominal distension, hematemesis, and coughing, which are actually manifestations of “extreme deficiency with apparent excess.” In reality, righteous qi deficiency remains the primary contradiction. If one blindly uses methods like breaking up blood clots, employing harsh purgatives, or clearing heat and draining fire, not only will these measures fail to address the superficial excess, but they will also harm righteous qi, further weakening the body and worsening the condition.