Traditional acupuncture (TA) can reduce the frequency of hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS), and improve physical and emotional well-being in women taking tamoxifen for breast cancer. In a single-arm observational study 50 participants with early breast cancer received eight weekly, individualised TA treatments using a core standardised acupuncture protocol developed to treat HFNS in natural menopause. Mean frequency of HFNS was reduced by 49.8% at end of treatment (EOT) compared with baseline. Perceptions of HFNS as a problem reduced by 2.2 points, indicating that participants found their HFNS significantly less bothersome following treatment. Seven health domains showed significant statistical and clinical improvements, including anxiety/fear, memory/concentration, menstrual problems, sexual behaviour, sleep problems, somatic symptoms and vasomotor symptoms. (Using traditional acupuncture for breast cancer-related hot flashes and night sweats. J Altern Complement Med. 2010 Oct;16(10):1047-57).
In another study, the same authors evaluated the feasibility of the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) five-point ear acupuncture protocol to reduce HFNS and improve physical and emotional well-being for women receiving breast cancer treatment. Fifty participants completed weekly NADA treatment for eight weeks in small groups (less than five patients). Mean HFNS frequency was reduced by 35.9%, perceptions of HFNS as a problem were reduced by 2.2 points, and statistical and clinical improvements were recorded for anxiety/fears, depressed mood, memory/concentration, sleep problems, somatic symptoms and vasomotor symptoms.. (NADA Ear Acupuncture for Breast Cancer Treatment–Related Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: An Observational Study. Medical Acupuncture. December 2012, 24(4): 256-268).
Categories: Cancer
