Final answer:
CAM therapies are not considered part of conventional medicine because there is insufficient evidence regarding their safety and effectiveness. These therapies may be costly, time-consuming, and have variable effects on individuals, coupled with potential side effects. New therapy approval processes involve ethical considerations of balancing benefits against risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies are not considered part of conventional medicine primarily because there is not yet sufficient proof of their safety and effectiveness. Traditional medical practices require rigorous testing for both safety and efficacy before they can be widely recommended and integrated into standard care. CAM therapies often lack this extensive evidence base, and while some may show promise, they are usually time and labor-intensive, potentially costly to produce, and may not have the same level of effect in every individual. Furthermore, like established treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, CAM therapies can also have unpleasant and sometimes severe side effects.
Bringing any new therapy to market, including CAM, involves ethical considerations. It's essential to balance the expected benefits of therapy against the potential risks involved. New therapies must be sufficiently tested before being marketed to the public to ensure they are safe. This process can be complicated and pressured, as there can be significant demand to approve new therapies due to potential benefits despite significant risks.