An observational study carried out by a research team from the UK suggests that the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) five-point ear acupuncture protocol may offer a simple non-pharmacological method for managing breast-cancer treatment–related hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS). Fifty breast cancer patients receiving tamoxifen received weekly NADA treatment for eight weeks in small groups. The results showed a mean reduction in frequency of HFNS of 35.9% at the end of eight weeks of treatment, with 83% of participants experiencing some degree of symptom reduction. There was also an indication of longer-term benefit, with the reduction in HFNS frequency rising to 37% at four weeks after end-of-treatment (EOT) and remaining at that level at 18 weeks post-EOT. In addition, clinical improvements were recorded for anxiety/fear, 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
