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Yin P, Fan Q, Liu L, Yang M, Zhang S, Li X, Hou W, Feng Q, Wang X, Jin Z, Li F, Chen Y. Efficacy of acupuncture treatment for breast cancer-related insomnia: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1301338. [PMID: 38846918 PMCID: PMC11153751 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1301338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms among breast cancer patients, which can be present throughout all stages of breast cancer. As a non-pharmacological alternative treatment, acupuncture has been suggested to improve sleep situations in patients with cancer suffering from insomnia. However, there is a lack of well-designed, high-quality clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of breast cancer-related insomnia. This study is conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment for breast cancer-related insomnia. Methods This study was designed as a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. A total of 264 eligible patients with breast cancer-related insomnia will be randomized into an acupuncture group and a sham acupuncture group in a 1:1 ratio. In the trial, patients in the acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups will receive 12 sessions over a consecutive 4-week period. The primary outcome will be the treatment response rate of Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) at week 4; secondary outcomes include treatment remission rate of ISI, Sleep Efficiency (SE) obtained by the use of Sleep diary, treatment response rate of ISI at 8th and 16th weeks of follow-up, the mean changes of ISI, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 30 (QLQ-C30), sleep parameters recorded in Actigraphy and weekly usage of remedial drugs. Adverse events will be recorded throughout the study. All analyses will be based on the ITT principle and performed with SAS 9.4 statistical software. Discussion This trial will evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of acupuncture for breast cancer-related insomnia. If proven effective, acupuncture will provide an effective option for patients with breast cancer-related insomnia, which will play a positive role in helping patients reduce their use of sleeping medications. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05510700.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yin
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Fan
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lumin Liu
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Yang
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shunxian Zhang
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Li
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenguang Hou
- Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qifan Feng
- Hainan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Xuhui District Central Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhu Jin
- Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuelai Chen
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Kwon KK, Lacey J, Kerin-Ayres K, Heller G, Grant S. Acupuncture for the treatment of the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-numbness/tingling symptom cluster in breast cancer survivors: a feasibility trial. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:332. [PMID: 38713422 PMCID: PMC11076364 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08529-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer survivors following disease-modifying treatment frequently experience multiple-concurrent symptoms (Jansana et al. in Int J Cancer 149(10):1755 1767, 2021), negatively impacting their quality of life and increasing the risk of polypharmacy (Alwhaibi et al. in J Oncol Pharm Pract 26(5):1052 1059, 2020). This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of acupuncture for the management of the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-numbness/tingling symptom cluster in breast cancer survivors, and investigates relationships between the symptom cluster and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome diagnosis. METHODS This was a single-arm, pre-test/post-test feasibility trial conducted at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Australia. Breast cancer survivors who completed treatment and experienced clinically significant levels of two or more symptoms (pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, numbness/tingling) were eligible to participate in the individualized, pragmatic 6-week acupuncture intervention. The primary outcome was feasibility and acceptability. Effectiveness was explored using a symptom cluster mean score. RESULTS Twenty women enrolled in the study over an 11-week period and 90% completed the study. Most women agreed or completely agreed that acupuncture was feasible (85%), acceptable (90%), and appropriate (90%). Both mean and composite symptom cluster scores were significantly reduced (p < 0.001), as were individual symptom scores in fatigue (p < 0.001), sleep disturbance (p = 0.04), and numbness/tingling (p = 0.01). TCM syndromes most closely associated with this symptom cluster were Spleen qi deficiency and Heart fire. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that acupuncture was safe and feasible, justifying a powered randomized control trial. Preliminary findings suggest beneficial effects of acupuncture for the management of the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance-numbness/tingling symptom cluster for women with breast cancer. TCM syndromes identified in this trial may be used to guide acupuncture treatment protocols. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000590763) on 21 April 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Kyung Kwon
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Judith Lacey
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Kim Kerin-Ayres
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Gillian Heller
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Suzanne Grant
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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Li H, Schlaeger JM, Patil CL, Danciu O, Chen Z, Lif N, Gao S, Doorenbos AZ. Feasibility of implementing acupuncture in medically underserved breast cancer survivors (FAB): A protocol. Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 136:107387. [PMID: 37972754 PMCID: PMC10922295 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Nearly 94% of breast cancer survivors experience one or more symptoms or side effects during or after endocrine therapy. Joint pain, hot flashes, sleep disturbance, fatigue, depression, and anxiety are the most common concurrent symptoms, some of which can persist for 5 to 10 years. Acupuncture is a holistic modality that addresses multiple symptoms and side effects in a single therapy. Acupuncture has not yet been investigated for its effectiveness in treating the multiple symptoms experienced by breast cancer survivors receiving endocrine therapy. Medically underserved breast cancer survivors typically have limited access to acupuncture. The barriers limiting access to acupuncture need to be removed to enable equal access to breast cancer survivors for this evidence-based treatment. Thus, we developed a randomized controlled trial with a 5-week acupuncture intervention versus usual care for medically underserved breast cancer survivors. Mixed methods (semi-structured interviews, surveys, study notes) will be used to obtain in-depth understanding of barriers and facilitators for eventual implementation of the acupuncture intervention. This study will facilitate the widespread implementation, dissemination, and sustained utilization of acupuncture for symptom management among medically underserved breast cancer survivors receiving endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjin Li
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Nursing, Department of Human Development Nursing Science, 845 S. Damen Avenue (M/C 802), Chicago, IL 60612, USA; University of Illinois Cancer Center, 818 South Wolcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Judith M Schlaeger
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Nursing, Department of Human Development Nursing Science, 845 S. Damen Avenue (M/C 802), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Crystal L Patil
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Nursing, Department of Human Development Nursing Science, 845 S. Damen Avenue (M/C 802), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Oana Danciu
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Medicine, Department of Hematology/Oncology, 820 S. Wood Street Suite 172 CSN (M/C 712), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Zhengjia Chen
- University of Illinois Cancer Center, 818 South Wolcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Natalie Lif
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Nursing, Department of Human Development Nursing Science, 845 S. Damen Avenue (M/C 802), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Shuang Gao
- University of Illinois, Chicago College of Medicine, 1853 W Polk St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ardith Z Doorenbos
- University of Illinois Cancer Center, 818 South Wolcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; University of Illinois, Chicago College of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, 845 S. Damen Avenue (M/C 802), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Serra D, Fleishman SB, White C, Leung TM, Chadha M. Acupuncture Reduces Severity of Hot Flashes in Breast Cancer: A Randomized Single-Blind Trial. Holist Nurs Pract 2023; 37:330-336. [PMID: 37851349 DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine-based therapeutic acupuncture (TA) in reducing the severity of hot flashes (HFs) in breast cancer patients and compared the effectiveness of TA to "sham" placebo acupuncture (SA). Subjects experiencing more than 10 episodes of HF/week were randomly assigned to TA or SA. The response was assessed by the Menopause-specific Quality of Life (MenQoL) scale, scoring the subject's perception of the severity of HFs. HFs were scored at baseline, after treatment, and 1-month follow-up. A total of 54 subjects enrolled (28 TA and 26 SA). Seven women withdrew from the study. A hot flash diary documented the number of HFs a subject experienced. Analysis included 47 subjects (27 TA and 20 SA). A statistically significant response in HF scores was noted in the TA group compared with the SA group (P = .0064.) On average HF scores dropped by 1.89 with TA, and only 0.16 with SA. At follow-up, TA subjects had a sustained response. TA is effective in reducing the intensity and severity of HF. With SA, no relative response/change in HF scores was noted. Larger studies and longer follow-up to assess durability of response to TA are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Serra
- Mount Sinai Downtown, New York, New York (Ms Serra and White and Dr Chadha); Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine, Indio, California (Dr Fleishman); and Consultant, New York, New York (Dr Leung)
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Jeong YJ, Choi HR, Kim KS, Shin IH, Park SH. Impact of Acupuncture on Hot Flashes in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Adjuvant Antiestrogen Therapy with Tamoxifen: A Randomized Controlled Trial. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2023; 29:241-252. [PMID: 36787483 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2022.0636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of acupuncture on hot flashes in breast cancer patients taking tamoxifen as an adjuvant antiestrogen therapy in Korea. Design: This trial was a randomized, no-treatment-controlled, single-blind, multi-center trial. Participants were randomized 1:1 into the acupuncture group or into the no-treatment control group. Location: This trial was conducted at Daegu Catholic University Hospital and Daegu Haany University Korean Medicine Hospital in Daegu, Republic of Korea. Participants: Patients with moderate to severe symptoms of hot flashes while receiving adjuvant antiestrogen therapy using tamoxifen after surgery for breast cancer were included. Interventions: In the acupuncture group, acupuncture was performed three times a week for 4 consecutive weeks at five predetermined points. The control group received no treatment during the study period. Study Outcome Measures: As a primary outcome, the severity of hot flashes was measured on the visual analogue scale (VAS) and total hot flash score. In addition, the quality of life (QoL) of participants was assessed as a secondary outcome. Results: A total of 30 patients were included in this study, 15 each in the acupuncture group and the control group. The participants in the acupuncture group significantly decreased the severity of hot flashes evaluated with both VAS and total hot flash scores compared with participants in the control group. Also, the acupuncture group showed improved score of a global health status/QoL scale and functional scales assessed with the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL questionnaire-core questionnaire, compared with those in the control group. This trend was maintained 4 weeks after acupuncture treatment. No adverse events have been reported in this study. Conclusions: Acupuncture was effective and safe in improving hot flashes in Korean breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant antiestrogen therapy with tamoxifen, and it improved the QoL. Clinical Trial Registration: KCT0007829.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Ju Jeong
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hye Ryeon Choi
- Department of Surgery, Eulji Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung-Soon Kim
- Department of Korean Internal Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Im Hee Shin
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sung Hwan Park
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea
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Cheung DST, Xu X, Smith R, Takemura N, Yeung WF, Chan W, Lao L, Lin C. Invasive or
noninvasive
? A systematic review and network
meta‐analysis
of acupuncture and acupressure to treat sleep disturbance in cancer patients. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Shuk Ting Cheung
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
| | - Xinyi Xu
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
| | - Robert Smith
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
| | - Naomi Takemura
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
| | - Wing Fai Yeung
- School of Nursing The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon Hong Kong SAR
| | - Wing‐lok Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
| | - Lixing Lao
- Virginia University of Integrative Medicine Vienna Virginia USA
| | - Chia‐Chin Lin
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong SAR
- College of Nursing Taipei Medical University Taipei Taiwan
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7
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Yu H, Liu C, Chen B, Zhai J, Ba D, Zhu Z, Li N, Loh P, Chen A, Wang B, Guo Y, Liu Y, Chen Z. The clinical efficacy and safety of acupuncture intervention on cancer-related insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1026759. [PMID: 36590284 PMCID: PMC9799057 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1026759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating symptoms for Cancer-related Insomnia(CRI) patients. Methods Seven databases were searched from the time of database establishment to 31 March 2022. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) on acupuncture intervention for CRI were collected. Literature screening and data extraction were performed independently by two researchers. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Results A total of 13 articles with 1,109 participants were included. Five hundred and seventeen in the treatment group and 592 in the control group. Ten of the RCTs used the PSQI rating scale and four randomized controlled trials used the ISI rating scale, and the PSQI and ISI were analyzed together as continuous data. The results of the meta-analysis were: MD = -1.83, 95%CI = [-2.71, -0.94], P < 0.0001, indicating a significant improvement in PSQI scores in patients with CRI by acupuncture intervention; MD = 0.79, 95%CI = [-0.46, 2.03], P = 0.22. Acupuncture was not statistically significant on ISI scores for patients with CRI compared to controls, which does not yet indicate that acupuncture is effective for symptoms in patients with CRI. The results of the meta-analysis of the other 4 items using sleep disorder logs as efficacy analysis data were as follow, relative risk RR = 0.47, 95%CI = [0.33, 0.66], P < 0.0001. The difference was statistically significant, indicating that acupuncture can improve the symptoms of CRI patients compared to control group. Conclusion Acupuncture can improve the symptoms of patients with CRI to some extent, but due to the relatively small number and low quality of the included literature in this study, more high-quality clinical trials are needed as supplement the evidences in future. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.
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Affiliation(s)
- HaiXin Yu
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - CaiYun Liu
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Acupuncture Research Center, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Bo Chen
| | - JingBo Zhai
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - DongSheng Ba
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zheng Zhu
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - NingCen Li
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - PeiYong Loh
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - AoXiang Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Bin Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Acupuncture Research Center, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Yi Guo
| | - YangYang Liu
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Acupuncture Research Center, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - ZeLin Chen
- Department of Acu-moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Acupuncture Research Center, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Cho B, Pérez M, Jeffe DB, Kreuter MW, Margenthaler JA, Colditz GA, Liu Y. Factors associated with initiation and continuation of endocrine therapy in women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:837. [PMID: 35915419 PMCID: PMC9341086 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09946-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Despite benefits of endocrine therapy (ET) for patients with hormone-receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer, many patients do not initiate or discontinue ET against recommendations.
Methods
We identified variables associated with ET initiation and continuation, analyzing pooled data from two longitudinal studies at a National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center in St. Louis, Missouri. The sample included 533 women with newly diagnosed, non-metastatic, HR-positive breast cancer who completed interviews at enrollment and 6, 12, and 24 months after definitive surgical treatment. Logistic regression models estimated the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (aOR [95% CI]) for each of self-reported ET initiation by the 12-month interview and continuation for ≥12 months by the 24-month interview in association with self-reported diabetes, elevated depressed mood, menopausal-symptom severity and obesity, adjusting for race, age, insurance status, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Results
Overall, 81.4% (434/533) of patients initiated ET, and 86.5% (371/429) continued ET ≥12 months. Patients with diabetes had lower odds of initiating ET (0.50 [0.27-0.91]). Patients reporting greater menopausal-symptom severity had lower odds of continuing ET (0.72 [0.53-0.99]).
Conclusion
Efforts to increase ET initiation among patients with diabetes and better manage severe menopausal symptoms among ET users might promote ET continuation.
Clinical trial information
ClinicalTrials.gov: #NCT00929084.
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Zhang J, Zhang Z, Huang S, Qiu X, Lao L, Huang Y, Zhang ZJ. Acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 102:154160. [PMID: 35636168 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-related insomnia is a highly prevalent complaint in cancer patients. However, there is no meta-analytic synthesis explored the efficacy of acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia among cancer patients undergoing active cancer treatments. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to explore the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for insomnia in people diagnosed with cancer. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of existing randomized controlled trials on acupuncture in the treatment of cancer-related insomnia. METHODS According to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) Statement, we identified and extracted the trials through November 2021 from ten databases and two trials record platforms (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Allied and Complementary Medicine, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Digital Journals, ClinicalTrials, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform). The quality of the trials was assessed using Jadad score and Risk of Bias (2.0). A meta-analysis was synthesized using the random-effects model if the included studies were in high methodological quality. RESULTS A total of 690 studies were identified, with 22 were included in the review, and 6 of them were included in the quantitative synthesis. Studies were highly heterogeneous in terms of participant characteristics and study methodologies. Most studies recruited patients diagnosed with a specific cancer type, and breast cancer patients were the subgroup most represented. The qualitative review of available evidence suggested a beneficial efficacy of acupuncture on sleep without serious adverse events in several studies (55%). The meta-analysis revealed that acupuncture produced a significant improvement in the total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score relative to the wait-list control among breast cancer patients undergoing active cancer treatments (MD -1.92, 95% CI -3.25 to -0.59, p = 0.005). Similar improvement of real and sham acupuncture on PSQI score change post-intervention was found (MD: -0.68, 95% CI: -2.44 to 1.07, p = 0.44). Manual acupuncture had similar effective rate as compared to estazolam immediately post-intervention (RR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.01, p = 0.09), and had significantly better effective rate than estazolam at 1-week post-intervention follow-up (RR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.43, p = 0.0009). All reported acupuncture related adverse events were mild or moderate in severity. CONCLUSION Acupuncture has great potential to be used to manage cancer-related insomnia for cancer patients or survivors. More studies with rigorous designs and larger sample size are warranted to verify the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for insomnia among people diagnosed with cancer, in particular among those with clinically significant insomnia. REGISTRATION PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021285844).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Zhinan Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Shengtao Huang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Xiaoke Qiu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Lixing Lao
- Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Yong Huang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Zhang-Jin Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Department of Chinese Medicine, the University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China.
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Wan Q, Luo S, Wang X, Tian Q, Xi H, Zheng S, Fang Q, Chen H, Wu W, Pan R. Association of Acupuncture and Auricular Acupressure With the Improvement of Sleep Disturbances in Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:856093. [PMID: 35664757 PMCID: PMC9159913 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.856093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on the efficacy of acupuncture and auricular acupressure on sleep disturbances in cancer patients have been growing, but there is no specific and comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and auricular acupressure on sleep disturbances in cancer survivors based on existing randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Methods Four English-language and four Chinese-language biomedical databases were searched for RCTs published from database inception to July 30, 2021. RCTs comparing acupuncture and auricular acupressure with sham control, drug therapy, behavior therapy, or usual care for managing cancer were included. The quality of RCTs was appraised with the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias (ROB) tool. Mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the effect sizes. Results Thirteen RCTs with 961 patients were included. The risk of performance bias or reporting bias for most of the included trials was high or unclear. Evidence was not found for short-term effects on sleep scales compared to sham control (MD, 1.98; 95% CI, 0.33-3.64; p = 0.02; I2 = 36%), wait list control (MD, 0.40; 95% CI, -0.87-1.68; p = 0.54; I2 = 49%), drug therapy (MD, 1.18; 95% CI, -3.09-5.46; p = 0.59; I2 = 98%). For long-term effect, two sham-controlled RCTs showed no significance of acupuncture on insomnia scale scores (MD, 1.71; 95% CI, -2.38-5.81; p = 0.41; I2 = 89%). Subgroup analyses suggested no evidence that auricular acupressure (MD, 3.14; 95% CI=1.52, 4.76; p = 0.0001; I2 = 0%) or acupuncture (MD, 0.54; 95% CI=-1.27, 2.34; p = 0.56; I2 = 0%) was associated with the reduction in insomnia scale scores. Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analysis found no evidence about acupuncture or auricular acupressure in the improvement of sleep disturbances in cancer survivors in terms of short- or long-term effect. Adverse events were minor. The finding was inconsistent with previous research and suggested that more well-designed and large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to identify the efficacy of acupuncture and auricular acupressure for sleep disturbances in cancer survivors. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, CRD42020171612.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Wan
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuting Luo
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qianmo Tian
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Nanjing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hanqing Xi
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shiyu Zheng
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qinqin Fang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenzhong Wu
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Pan
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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11
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Höxtermann MD, Haller H, Aboudamaah S, Bachemir A, Dobos G, Cramer H, Voiss P. Safety of acupuncture in oncology: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cancer 2022; 128:2159-2173. [PMID: 35262912 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture is frequently used to treat the side effects of cancer treatment, but the safety of this intervention remains uncertain. The current meta-analysis was conducted to assess the safety of acupuncture in oncological patients. METHODS The PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus databases were searched from their inception to August 7, 2020. Randomized controlled trials in oncological patients comparing invasive acupuncture with sham acupuncture, treatment as usual (TAU), or any other active control were eligible. Two reviewers independently extracted data on study characteristics and adverse events (AEs). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. RESULTS Of 4590 screened articles, 65 were included in the analyses. The authors observed that acupuncture was not associated an with increased risk of intervention-related AEs, nonserious AEs, serious AEs, or dropout because of AEs compared with sham acupuncture and an active control. Compared with TAU, acupuncture was not associated with an increased risk of intervention-related AEs, serious AEs, or drop out because of AEs but was associated with an increased risk for nonserious AEs (odds ratio, 3.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-13.35; P = .03). However, the increased risk of nonserious AEs compared with TAU was not robust against selection bias. The meta-analyses may have been biased because of the insufficient reporting of AEs in the original randomized controlled trials. CONCLUSIONS The current review indicates that acupuncture is as safe as sham acupuncture and active controls in oncological patients. The authors recommend researchers heed the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) safety and harm extension for reporting to capture the side effects and better investigate the risk profile of acupuncture in oncology. LAY SUMMARY According to this analysis, acupuncture is a safe therapy for the treatment of patients with cancer. Acupuncture seems to be safe compared with sham acupuncture and active controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D Höxtermann
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Heidemarie Haller
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Shaimaa Aboudamaah
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Armin Bachemir
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Gustav Dobos
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Holger Cramer
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Petra Voiss
- Evangelical Clinics Essen-Mitte, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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12
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Wang CC, Han EY, Jenkins M, Hong X, Pang S, Whitehead L, Kirk DL, Williams A. The safety and efficacy of using moxibustion and or acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524211070569. [PMID: 35036916 PMCID: PMC8755931 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211070569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to synthesise the best available evidence on the safety and
efficacy of using moxibustion and/or acupuncture to manage cancer-related
insomnia (CRI). Methods: The PRISMA framework guided the review. Nine databases were searched from its
inception to July 2020, published in English or Chinese. Randomised clinical
trials (RCTs) of moxibustion and or acupuncture for the treatment of CRI
were selected for inclusion. Methodological quality was assessed using the
method suggested by the Cochrane collaboration. The Cochrane Review Manager
was used to conduct a meta-analysis. Results: Fourteen RCTs met the eligibility criteria. Twelve RCTs used the Pittsburgh
Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score as continuous data and a meta-analysis
showed positive effects of moxibustion and or acupuncture
(n = 997, mean difference (MD) = −1.84, 95% confidence
interval (CI) = −2.75 to −0.94, p < 0.01). Five RCTs
using continuous data and a meta-analysis in these studies also showed
significant difference between two groups (n = 358, risk
ratio (RR) = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.26–0.80,
I2 = 39%). Conclusion: The meta-analyses demonstrated that moxibustion and or acupuncture showed a
positive effect in managing CRI. Such modalities could be considered an
add-on option in the current CRI management regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Chunfeng Wang
- Carol Chunfeng Wang Researcher and Lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia
| | - Ellen Yichun Han
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Xuepei Hong
- School of Nursing, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shuqin Pang
- School of Nursing, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lisa Whitehead
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Deborah L Kirk
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anne Williams
- Discipline of Nursing, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
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13
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de Valois B, Young T, Thorpe P, Degun T, Corbishley K. Acupuncture in the real world: evaluating a 15-year NADA auricular acupuncture service for breast cancer survivors experiencing hot flushes and night sweats as a consequence of adjuvant hormonal therapies. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:5063-5074. [PMID: 35247073 PMCID: PMC9046325 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06898-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE While clinical trials provide valuable data about efficacy of interventions, findings often do not translate into clinical settings. We report real world clinical outcomes of a 15-year service offering breast cancer survivors auricular acupuncture to manage hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS) associated with adjuvant hormonal treatments. This service evaluation aims to (1) assess whether usual practice alleviates symptoms in a clinically meaningful way and (2) compare these results with scientific evidence. METHODS Data were analysed from 415 referrals to a service offering women eight standardised treatments using the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol. Outcome measures administered at baseline, end of treatment (EOT), and 4 and 18 weeks after EOT included hot flush diaries, hot flush rating scale (HFRS) and women's health questionnaire (WHQ). RESULTS Over 2285 treatments were given to 300 women; 275 (92.3%) completed all eight treatments. Median daily frequency of HFNS reduced from 9.6 (IQR 7.3) to 5.7 (IQR 5.8) at EOT and 6.3 (IQR 6.5) 18 weeks after EOT. HFRS problem rating showed a clinically meaningful reduction of ≥ 2 points at all measurement points. WHQ showed improvements in several symptoms associated with the menopause. Two adverse events were reported, neither were serious. Results are comparable to published research. CONCLUSION This first analysis of a long-term auricular acupuncture service compares favourably with outcomes of other studies for reducing HFNS frequency and associated menopausal symptoms. In day-to-day clinical practice, NADA appears to be a safe effective intervention for breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley de Valois
- grid.439624.e0000 0004 0467 7828Supportive Oncology Research Team, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust Incorporating Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, HA6 2RN Middlesex UK ,grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - Teresa Young
- grid.439624.e0000 0004 0467 7828Supportive Oncology Research Team, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust Incorporating Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, HA6 2RN Middlesex UK
| | - Pam Thorpe
- grid.416188.20000 0004 0400 1238Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, HA6 2RN Middlesex UK
| | - Tarsem Degun
- grid.416188.20000 0004 0400 1238Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, HA6 2RN Middlesex UK
| | - Karen Corbishley
- grid.416188.20000 0004 0400 1238Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, HA6 2RN Middlesex UK
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14
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Efverman A. Implementation of Acupuncture in Routine Oncology Care: A Comparison of Physicians’, Nurses’, Physiotherapists’ and Acupuncturists’ Practice and Beliefs. Integr Cancer Ther 2022; 21:15347354221132834. [DOI: 10.1177/15347354221132834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is important to investigate beliefs in acupuncture in professionals because professionals’ expectations may affect treatment outcomes. Aim: To document the type, number, and education of professionals practicing acupuncture. Further, to compare beliefs about the effectiveness of acupuncture for common cancer related symptoms in the different types of professionals. Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a questionnaire on practice and beliefs regarding acupuncture effects for symptoms that commonly occur in patients treated within oncology care settings. The respondents (n = 555) consisted of oncology professionals that is, physicians (n = 133), nurses (n = 172), and physiotherapists (n = 117). Additional respondents consisted of acupuncturists (n = 133), working outside approved health care. Results: Of the respondents, acupuncture was practiced by 4% of the physicians, 6% of the nurses, 58% of the physiotherapists, and 90% of the acupuncturists. The professionals believed acupuncture to be effective for pain (of the physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and acupuncturists, 94%, 98%, 89%, and 99% respectively believed in the effectiveness), chemotherapy-induced nausea (corresponding figures: 74%, 89%, 89%, and 93%), and vasomotor symptoms (corresponding figures: 71%, 81%, 80%, and 97%). The physicians believed acupuncture to be effective in a mean of 5 symptoms, nurses in 6 symptoms, physiotherapists in 6 symptoms, and acupuncturists in 10 symptoms ( P < .001). Conclusions: Since the professionals varied substantially regarding practice, education and beliefs in acupuncture, oncology clinics may consider delivering patient preferred acupuncture according to evidence-informed guidelines rather than on varying preferences among the professionals, since professionals’ treatment expectations may modify treatment outcomes.
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15
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Multimodal Care for Headaches, Lumbopelvic Pain, and Dysmenorrhea in a Woman With Endometriosis: A Case Report. J Chiropr Med 2022; 20:148-157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcm.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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16
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Li H, Schlaeger JM, Jang MK, Lin Y, Park C, Liu T, Sun M, Doorenbos AZ. Acupuncture Improves Multiple Treatment-Related Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Altern Complement Med 2021; 27:1084-1097. [PMID: 34449251 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2021.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Acupuncture has demonstrated effectiveness for symptom management among breast cancer survivors. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on treatment-related symptoms among breast cancer survivors. Methods: The authors searched PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE for relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for managing treatment-related symptoms published in English through June 2021. They appraised the quality of each article using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Criteria. The primary outcomes were pain, hot flashes, sleep disturbance, fatigue, depression, lymphedema, and neuropathy as individual symptoms. They also evaluated adverse events reported in acupuncture studies. Results: Of 26 selected trials (2055 patients), 20 (1709 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Acupuncture was more effective than control groups in improving pain intensity [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.60, 95% confidence intervals (CI) -1.06 to -0.15], fatigue [SMD = -0.62, 95% CI -1.03 to -0.20], and hot flash severity [SMD = -0.52, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.22]. The subgroup analysis indicated that acupuncture showed trends but not significant effects on all the treatment-related symptoms compared with the sham acupuncture groups. Compared with waitlist control and usual care groups, the acupuncture groups showed significant reductions in pain intensity, fatigue, depression, hot flash severity, and neuropathy. No serious adverse events were reported related to acupuncture intervention. Mild adverse events (i.e., bruising, pain, swelling, skin infection, hematoma, headache, menstrual bleeding) were reported in 11 studies. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that acupuncture significantly reduces multiple treatment-related symptoms compared with the usual care or waitlist control group among breast cancer survivors. The safety of acupuncture was inadequately reported in the included studies. Based on the available data, acupuncture seems to be generally a safe treatment with some mild adverse events. These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for incorporating acupuncture into clinical breast cancer symptom management. Due to the high risk of bias and blinding issues in some RCTs, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of acupuncture in reducing multiple treatment-related symptoms among breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjin Li
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Judith M Schlaeger
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Min Kyeong Jang
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yufen Lin
- School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chang Park
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tingting Liu
- Eleanor Mann School of Nursing, University of Arkansas, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Min Sun
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Hillman Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ardith Z Doorenbos
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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17
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Zhang Y, Sun Y, Li D, Liu X, Fang C, Yang C, Luo T, Lu H, Li H, Zhang H, Liang Q, Wu J, Huang L, Xu R, Ren L, Chen Q. Acupuncture for Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Patient-Reported Outcomes. Front Oncol 2021; 11:646315. [PMID: 34178633 PMCID: PMC8222976 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.646315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract The present systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to evaluate the effects of acupuncture in women with breast cancer (BC), focusing on patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Methods A comprehensive literature search was carried out for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting PROs in BC patients with treatment-related symptoms after undergoing acupuncture for at least four weeks. Literature screening, data extraction, and risk bias assessment were independently carried out by two researchers. Results Out of the 2, 524 identified studies, 29 studies representing 33 articles were included in this meta-analysis. At the end of treatment (EOT), the acupuncture patients’ quality of life (QoL) was measured by the QLQ-C30 QoL subscale, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Endocrine Symptoms (FACT-ES), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General/Breast (FACT-G/B), and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), which depicted a significant improvement. The use of acupuncture in BC patients lead to a considerable reduction in the scores of all subscales of the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) measuring pain. Moreover, patients treated with acupuncture were more likely to experience improvements in hot flashes scores, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and anxiety compared to those in the control group, while the improvements in depression were comparable across both groups. Long-term follow-up results were similar to the EOT results. Conclusions Current evidence suggests that acupuncture might improve BC treatment-related symptoms measured with PROs including QoL, pain, fatigue, hot flashes, sleep disturbance and anxiety. However, a number of included studies report limited amounts of certain subgroup settings, thus more rigorous, well-designed and larger RCTs are needed to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhu Zhang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Breast Department, Zhuhai Hospital of Guangdong Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Liu
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Fang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunmin Yang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianyu Luo
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai Lu
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huachao Li
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianyi Liang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahua Wu
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Limei Huang
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Xu
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping Ren
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianjun Chen
- Breast Clinic Center, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Breast Clinic Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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18
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Hutton B, Hersi M, Cheng W, Pratt M, Barbeau P, Mazzarello S, Ahmadzai N, Skidmore B, Morgan SC, Bordeleau L, Ginex PK, Sadeghirad B, Morgan RL, Cole KM, Clemons M. Comparing Interventions for Management of Hot Flashes in Patients With Breast and Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analyses. Oncol Nurs Forum 2021; 47:E86-E106. [PMID: 32555553 DOI: 10.1188/20.onf.e86-e106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION Hot flashes are common and bothersome in patients with breast and prostate cancer and can adversely affect patients' quality of life. LITERATURE SEARCH Databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of one or more interventions for hot flashes in patients with a history of breast or prostate cancer. DATA EVALUATION Outcomes of interest included changes in hot flash severity, hot flash frequency, quality of life, and harms. Pairwise meta-analyses and network meta-analyses were performed where feasible, with narrative synthesis used where required. SYNTHESIS 40 RCTs were included. Findings from network meta-analysis for hot flash frequency suggested that several therapies may offer benefits compared to no treatment, but little data suggested differences between active therapies. Findings from network meta-analysis for hot flash score were similar. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Although many interventions may offer improvements for hot flashes versus no treatment, minimal data suggest important differences between therapies. SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS CAN BE FOUND BY VISITING&NBSP;HTTPS //bit.ly/2WGzi30.
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19
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Lei Y, Ho SC, Kwok C, Cheng A, Cheung KL, Lee R, Mo FKF, Yeo W. Menopausal symptoms inversely associated with quality of life: findings from a 5-year longitudinal cohort in Chinese breast cancer survivors. Menopause 2021; 28:928-934. [PMID: 33878090 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed menopausal symptoms (MPS) after breast cancer in relation to quality of life (QoL) during the first 5 years of survival. METHODS An ongoing prospective study enrolled 1,462 Chinese women with early-stage breast cancer. They were longitudinally followed up at four time-points, namely baseline, 18-, 36-, and 60-month after diagnosis. At each follow-up, Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 were used to assess MPS and QoL, respectively. RESULTS In total, 1,462, 1,289, 1,125, and 1,116 patients were included into the analyses at baseline, 18-, 36-, and 60-months, respectively. The percentages of patients with no or little, mild, moderate, and severe MPS at baseline were 31.8%, 30.0%, 30.4%, and 7.7%, respectively; the corresponding figures at 18-, 36-, and 60-month follow-up were similar. Using data from four follow-ups, Generalized Estimating Equations analyses showed that MPS was inversely associated with QoL. Higher MRS scores were related to lower QoL scores. For instance, every 1 point increase in MRS score was associated with a 1.5 point decrease in global health status/QoL score (P < 0.01). In terms of symptoms, higher MRS scores were related to more severe symptoms. CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted patients with more severe MPS tend to have worse QoL. Future investigation should be conducted to assess different means of alleviating MPS to improve patient's QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Lei
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Suzanne C Ho
- Division of Epidemiology, The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Kwok
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ashley Cheng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka Li Cheung
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Roselle Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Frankie K F Mo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory in Oncology in South China, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Winnie Yeo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory in Oncology in South China, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
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20
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Abstract
Sleep disturbances and insomnia are common among breast cancer survivors, and can have a significant effect on quality of life and numerous other significant outcomes. Among risks for sleep disturbance is the introduction of anti-estrogen endocrine therapies. The possible contributing factors to sleep disturbance in endocrine therapy are complex, and include pre-existing sleep disorders, the effects of chemotherapy and other treatments, and concurrent symptoms such as hot flashes. In addition, sleep disturbance in menopause, the natural downregulation of reproductive hormones in older age, is a common occurrence, and can offer a model for understanding the high prevalence of sleep problems in breast cancer survivors on endocrine therapy, as well as suggesting possible treatments such as behavioral interventions and pharmaceuticals. Altogether, significantly more research is needed to better understand and address sleep disturbance in breast cancer survivors on endocrine therapy in order to support quality of life and treatment adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Van Dyk
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior, UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Hadine Joffe
- Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital; Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School
| | - Judith E Carroll
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior, Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology
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21
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What makes one respond to acupuncture for insomnia? Perspectives of cancer survivors. Palliat Support Care 2021; 18:301-306. [PMID: 31571560 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951519000762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Like any therapy, acupuncture is effective for some patients, while not helpful for others. Understanding from a patients' perspective what makes one respond or not to acupuncture can help guide further intervention development. This study aimed to identify factors that influence the perception of acupuncture's therapeutic effect among cancer survivors with insomnia. METHOD We conducted post-treatment semi-structured interviews with cancer survivors who were randomized to the acupuncture group in a clinical trial for the treatment of insomnia. Survivors were categorized into Responders and Non-Responders to acupuncture treatment based on the change in the Insomnia Severity Index with a reduction of eight points or greater as the cut-off for the response. An integrated approach to data analysis was utilized by merging an a priori set of codes derived from the key ideas and a set of codes that emerged from the data through a grounded theory approach. Codes were examined for themes and patterns. RESULTS Among 28 cancer survivors interviewed, 18 (64%) were classified as Responders. Participants perceived the ability to respond to acupuncture as dependent on treatment that effectively: (1) alleviated co-morbidities contributing to insomnia, (2) supported sleep hygiene practices, and (3) provided a durable therapeutic effect. Acupuncture treatment that did not address one of these themes often detracted from positive treatment outcomes and diminished perceived benefit from acupuncture. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS We identified patient-perceived contributors to response to acupuncture, such as co-morbid medical conditions, adequate support for sleep hygiene practices, and temporary therapeutic relief. Addressing these factors may improve the overall effectiveness of acupuncture for insomnia.
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Sheng RY, Yan Y, Linh Dang H. Acupuncture for hot flashes: A literature review of randomized controlled trials conducted in the last 10 years. WORLD JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/wjtcm.wjtcm_27_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Tran S, Hickey M, Saunders C, Ramage L, Cohen PA. Nonpharmacological therapies for the management of menopausal vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:1183-1193. [PMID: 32940768 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05754-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer affects millions of women worldwide, and for many, therapy results in treatment-induced menopause. Menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors are often more severe, frequent, and of greater duration compared with natural menopause. Hot flushes and night sweats pose a significant burden for many women, with limited therapeutic options as menopausal hormone therapy is contraindicated. Guidelines recommend non-hormonal pharmacological agents including clonidine, gabapentin, and some antidepressants. However, some women may be reluctant to use medications due to concerns about side effects. The aim of this narrative review was to appraise recent evidence for nonpharmacological treatments for vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer survivors including cognitive behavioural therapy, hypnosis, yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes. METHODS A literature search was conducted. Studies were included if they were randomised and involved breast cancer survivors and nonpharmacological treatments for menopausal vasomotor symptoms. RESULTS Twelve studies met the criteria, and three studies of exercise in healthy menopausal women were included. Cognitive behavioural therapy reduces menopausal symptoms and perceived impact of hot flushes and night sweats in breast cancer survivors and is cost effective. The efficacy of hypnosis as a treatment for menopausal vasomotor symptoms in women with breast cancer is supported by two randomised controlled trials. Yoga and acupuncture may reduce vasomotor symptom frequency and/or burden. Studies of exercise as an intervention for vasomotor symptoms in healthy menopausal women have not shown benefit. CONCLUSION Evidence for nonpharmacological interventions supports cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnosis in the management of vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Tran
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Martha Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Level 7, Royal Women's Hospital, 20 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- Division of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Lesley Ramage
- Menopause Symptoms After Cancer Clinic, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia
| | - Paul A Cohen
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.,Department of Gynaecological Oncology, St John of God Subiaco Hospital, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia
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Kaplan M, Ginex PK, Michaud LB, Fernández-Ortega P, Leibelt J, Mahon S, Rapoport BL, Robinson V, Maloney C, Moriarty KA, Vrabel M, Morgan RL. ONS Guidelines™ for Cancer Treatment-Related Hot Flashes in Women With Breast Cancer and Men With Prostate Cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2020; 47:374-399. [PMID: 32555554 DOI: 10.1188/20.onf.374-399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hot flashes are a common and troublesome side effect of surgery or endocrine therapy. They may lead to physical and psychological distress and negatively affect quality of life. This clinical practice guideline presents evidence-based recommendations for pharmacologic, behavioral, and natural health product interventions for treatment-related hot flashes in patients with breast or prostate cancer. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH An interprofessional panel of healthcare professionals with patient representation prioritized clinical questions and patient outcomes for the management of hot flashes. Systematic reviews of the literature were conducted. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach was used to assess the evidence and make recommendations. FINDINGS The panel agreed on 14 pharmacologic, behavioral, and natural health recommendations. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Conditional recommendations include the use of antidepressants rather than no treatment, physical activity rather than no treatment, and the avoidance of gabapentin and dietary supplements in the treatment of hot flashes. SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL CAN BE FOUND AT&NBSP;HTTPS //onf.ons.org/ons-guidelines-hot-flashes-supplementary-material.
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Lund KS, Siersma V, Bang CW, Brodersen J, Waldorff FB. Sustained effects of a brief and standardised acupuncture approach on menopausal symptoms: post hoc analysis of the ACOM randomised controlled trial. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:396-406. [PMID: 32517477 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420920280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective was to investigate whether the effect of a brief and standardised acupuncture approach persists after the end of the acupuncture treatment (post-treatment effect) and whether the anticipation of future acupuncture treatment affects menopausal symptoms (pre-treatment effect). METHOD This study is a post hoc analysis of data from a randomised controlled trial where women with moderate to severe menopausal symptoms were offered weekly acupuncture treatment over five consecutive weeks and randomised (1:1) to an early intervention group that received treatment immediately and a late intervention group with a 6-week delay. The acupuncture style was Western medical, administered at CV3, CV4 and bilateral LR8, SP6 and SP9. Acupuncturists were general practitioners. The effect was evaluated repeatedly during and after the interventions using scales from the validated MenoScores Questionnaire (MSQ) for hot flushes (HF), day and night sweats (DNS), general sweating (GS) and menopausal-specific sleeping problems (MSSP) with a 26-week follow-up period (corresponding to 21 or 15 weeks post-treatment for the early and late intervention groups, respectively). Multivariable linear mixed models were used to analyse the extent and duration of effects. RESULTS Seventy participants were included in the study. Four participants dropped out. Furthermore, one participant was excluded from the short- and long-term follow-up analyses after the insertion of a hormonal intrauterine device, and nine participants were excluded from the long-term follow-up analysis due to the initiation of co-interventions. For each of the four outcomes, the effect was sustained up to 21 weeks post-treatment with an effect size that was only slightly diminished. A small, but significant, pre-treatment effect was observed in the HF scale scores. The same trend, although not significant, was observed in the DNS and MSSP scale scores. No serious harms were reported. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that the overall effect of a brief and standardised acupuncture treatment on menopause-relevant outcomes was sustained up to 21 weeks post-treatment and that there was a small pre-treatment effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamma Sundgaard Lund
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Volkert Siersma
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christine Winther Bang
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Brodersen
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Primary Health Care Research Unit, Region Zealand, Koege, Denmark
| | - Frans Boch Waldorff
- The Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Somatic Acupoint Stimulation for Cancer-Related Sleep Disturbance: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:2591320. [PMID: 32419795 PMCID: PMC7206868 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2591320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Aim The aim of this systematic review was to analyze and synthesize available evidence for the effects of somatic acupoint stimulation (SAS) on cancer-related sleep disturbance in adults with cancer. Methods Nine databases and four clinical trial registries were searched from their inception to July 2019 to identify potential articles and registered trials. Two authors independently extracted data and appraised the methodological quality of the included studies. The included studies could not be subjected to meta-analysis due to the significant variations in SAS intervention protocols and outcome measurement instruments. This systematic review therefore reported the results of the included trials narratively. Results Seven studies were identified, which involved 906 cancer patients. SAS protocols varied across trials without an optimal evidence-based standard intervention protocol to manage cancer-related sleep disturbance. Sanyinjiao (SP6) was the most commonly selected acupoint. Manual acupuncture was typically 15–30 min in duration and was conducted once a day or once a week for a period of 1–5 weeks, whereas self-administered acupressure was typically 1–3 min in duration per point and was conducted once a day, such as during night time before going to bed, for a period of 1–5 months. The results indicated that SAS could potentially relieve cancer-related sleep disturbance and improve quality of life. Mild adverse effects were reported in three of the included studies, but none of them performed a causality analysis to clarify the association between the reported adverse events and the intervention. Conclusions This systematic review showed that SAS is a useful approach to relieving cancer-related sleep disturbance. However, research evidence on SAS for managing cancer-related sleep disturbance has not been fully conclusive due to the limited number of existing clinical studies with relatively small sample size and suboptimal methodological quality. Clinical trials with large sample size and robust methodology are warranted in future research.
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Iliodromiti S, Wang W, Lumsden MA, Hunter MS, Bell R, Mishra G, Hickey M. Variation in menopausal vasomotor symptoms outcomes in clinical trials: a systematic review. BJOG 2019; 127:320-333. [PMID: 31621155 PMCID: PMC6972542 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is substantial variation in how menopausal vasomotor symptoms are reported and measured among intervention studies. This has prevented meaningful comparisons between treatments and limited data synthesis. OBJECTIVES To review systematically the outcome reporting and measures used to assess menopausal vasomotor symptoms from randomised controlled trials of treatments. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to May 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials with a primary outcome of menopausal vasomotor symptoms in women and a sample size of at least 20 women per study arm. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data about study characteristics, primary vasomotor-related outcomes and methods of measuring them. MAIN RESULTS The search identified 5591 studies, 214 of which were included. Forty-nine different primary reported outcomes were identified for vasomotor symptoms and 16 different tools had been used to measure these outcomes. The most commonly reported outcomes were frequency (97/214), severity (116/214), and intensity (28/114) of vasomotor symptoms or a composite of these outcomes (68/214). There was little consistency in how the frequency and severity/intensity of vasomotor symptoms were defined. CONCLUSIONS There is substantial variation in how menopausal vasomotor symptoms have been reported and measured in treatment trials. Future studies should include standardised outcome measures which reflect the priorities of patients, clinicians, and researchers. This is most effectively achieved through the development of a Core Outcome Set. This systematic review is the first step towards development of a Core Outcome Set for menopausal vasomotor symptoms. TWEETABLE SUMMARY Menopausal hot flushes and night sweats have been reported in 49 different ways in clinical research. A core outcome set is urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Iliodromiti
- Women's Health Division, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK.,School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - W Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - M A Lumsden
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - M S Hunter
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - R Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - G Mishra
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and The Royal Women's Hospital, Victoria, Australia
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Chien TJ, Liu CY, Fang CJ, Kuo CY. The maintenance effect of acupuncture on breast cancer-related menopause symptoms: a systematic review. Climacteric 2019; 23:130-139. [PMID: 31612733 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2019.1664460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Acupuncture has been used for many breast cancer treatment-related problems, but how long the effect lasts is unknown. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate how long the effect of acupuncture on breast cancer-related hot flushes and menopause symptoms lasts.Methods: The research design followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement, without language restrictions. Seven databases from inception through February 2019 were accessed; only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that examined the maintenance effect of acupuncture on hot flushes or menopause symptoms after treatment were included. Cochrane criteria were followed and RevMan 5.2 software was used to analyze trials.Results: In total, 943 patients from 13 RCTs were analyzed. The meta-analysis showed that acupuncture had no significant long-term maintenance effect on the frequency or severity of hot flushes (p = 0.29; p = 0.34), but had a significant 3-month maintenance effect of ameliorating menopause symptoms at 3 months after treatment ended (p = 0.001). No adverse events were reported.Conclusions: Acupuncture significantly alleviated menopause symptoms for at least 3 months, but not hot flushes. Breast cancer patients concerned about the adverse effects of hormone therapy could consider acupuncture as an alternative. Additional acupuncture at 3 months after the initial treatment course could be considered. A large-scale study may help to define the optimal guideline for this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-J Chien
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Branch of Zhong-Zhou and Jen-Ai, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - C-Y Liu
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Flourish Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - C-J Fang
- Medical Library, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Secretariat, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - C-Y Kuo
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Trabulsy P. COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE. Cancer 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/9781119645214.ch27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Lund KS, Siersma V, Brodersen J, Waldorff FB. Efficacy of a standardised acupuncture approach for women with bothersome menopausal symptoms: a pragmatic randomised study in primary care (the ACOM study). BMJ Open 2019; 9:e023637. [PMID: 30782712 PMCID: PMC6501989 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the efficacy of a standardised brief acupuncture approach for women with moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms. DESIGN Randomised and controlled, with 1:1 allocation to the intervention group or the control group. The assessor and the statistician were blinded. SETTING Nine Danish primary care practices. PARTICIPANTS 70 women with moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms and nine general practitioners with accredited education in acupuncture. INTERVENTION The acupuncture style was western medical with a standardised approach in the predefined acupuncture points CV-3, CV-4, LR-8, SP-6 and SP-9. The intervention group received one treatment for five consecutive weeks. The control group was offered treatment after 6 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Outcomes were the differences between the randomisation groups in changes to mean scores using the scales in the MenoScores Questionnaire, measured from baseline to week 6. The primary outcome was the hot flushes scale; the secondary outcomes were the other scales in the questionnaire. All analyses were based on intention-to-treat analysis. RESULTS 36 participants received the intervention, and 34 participants were in the control group. Four participants dropped out before week 6. The acupuncture intervention significantly decreased hot flushes: Δ -1.6 (95% CI [-2.3 to -0.8]; p<0.0001), day-and-night sweats: Δ -1.2 (95% CI [-2.0 to -0.4]; p=0.0056), general sweating: Δ -0.9(95% CI [-1.6 to -0.2]; p=0.0086), menopausal-specific sleeping problems: Δ -1.8 (95% CI [-2.7 to -1.0]; p<0.0001), emotional symptoms: Δ -3.4 (95% CI [-5.3 to -1.4]; p=0.0008), physical symptoms: Δ -1.7 (95% CI [-3 to -0.4]; p=0.010) and skin and hair symptoms: Δ -1.5 (95% CI [-2.5 to -0.6]; p=0.0021) compared with the control group at the 6-week follow-up. The pattern of decrease in hot flushes, emotional symptoms, skin and hair symptoms was already apparent 3 weeks into the study. Mild potential adverse effects were reported by four participants, but no severe adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS The standardised and brief acupuncture treatment produced a fast and clinically relevant reduction in moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms during the six-week intervention. No severe adverse effects were reported. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02746497; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamma Sundgaard Lund
- Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Volkert Siersma
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Brodersen
- Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Primary Health Care Research Unit, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frans Boch Waldorff
- The Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Acupuncture for menopausal hot flashes: clinical evidence update and its relevance to decision making. Menopause 2018; 24:980-987. [PMID: 28350757 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is conflicting evidence on the efficacy and effectiveness of acupuncture for menopausal hot flashes. This article synthesizes the best available evidence for when women are considering whether acupuncture might be useful for menopausal hot flashes. METHODS We searched electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews of acupuncture for menopausal hot flushes. RESULTS The overall evidence demonstrates that acupuncture is effective when compared with no treatment, but not efficacious compared with sham. Methodological challenges such as the complex nature of acupuncture treatment, the physiological effects from sham, and the significant efficacy of placebo therapy generally in treating hot flashes all impact on these considerations. CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture improves menopausal hot flashes compared with no treatment; however, not compared with sham acupuncture. This is also consistent with the evidence that a range of placebo interventions improve menopausal symptoms. As clinicians play a vital role in assisting evidence-informed decisions, we need to ensure women understand the evidence and can integrate it with personal preferences. Some women may choose acupuncture for hot flashes, a potentially disabling condition without long-term adverse health consequences. Yet, women should do so understanding the evidence, and its strengths and weaknesses, around both effective medical therapies and acupuncture. Likewise, cost to the individual and the health system needs to be considered in the context of value-based health care.
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Befus D, Coeytaux RR, Goldstein KM, McDuffie JR, Shepherd-Banigan M, Goode AP, Kosinski A, Van Noord MG, Adam SS, Masilamani V, Nagi A, Williams JW. Management of Menopause Symptoms with Acupuncture: An Umbrella Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:314-323. [DOI: 10.1089/acm.2016.0408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Deanna Befus
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Integrative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Remy R. Coeytaux
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Integrative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Karen M. Goldstein
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Jennifer R. McDuffie
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Megan Shepherd-Banigan
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Adam P. Goode
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Andrzej Kosinski
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC
| | | | - Soheir S. Adam
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Varsha Masilamani
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Avishek Nagi
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - John W. Williams
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
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Comparative effectiveness of electro-acupuncture versus gabapentin for sleep disturbances in breast cancer survivors with hot flashes: a randomized trial. Menopause 2018; 24:517-523. [PMID: 27875389 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sleep disturbance is a major consequence of hot flashes among breast cancer survivors. This study evaluated the effects of electro-acupuncture (EA) versus gabapentin (GP) for sleep disturbances among breast cancer survivors experiencing daily hot flashes. METHODS We analyzed data from a randomized controlled trial involving 58 breast cancer survivors experiencing bothersome hot flashes at least two times per day. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 8 weeks of EA or daily GP (total dose of 900 mg/d). The primary outcome was change in the total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score between groups at week 8. Secondary outcomes include specific PSQI domains. RESULTS By the end of treatment at week 8, the mean reduction in PSQI total score was significantly greater in the EA group than the GP group (-2.6 vs -0.8, P = 0.044). The EA also had improved sleep latency (-0.5 vs 0.1, P = 0.041) and sleep efficiency (-0.6 vs 0.0, P = 0.05) compared with the GP group. By week 8, the EA group had improved sleep duration, less sleep disturbance, shorter sleep latency, decreased daytime dysfunction, improved sleep efficiency, and better sleep quality (P < 0.05 for all) compared with baseline, whereas the GP group improved in duration and sleep quality only (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Among women experiencing hot flashes, the effects of EA are comparable with GP for improving sleep quality, specifically in the areas of sleep latency and efficiency. Larger randomized controlled trials with longer follow-ups are needed to confirm this preliminary finding.
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Fenlon D, Morgan A, Khambaita P, Mistry P, Dunn J, Ah-See ML, Pennery E, Hunter MS. Management of hot flushes in UK breast cancer patients: clinician and patient perspectives. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 38:276-283. [PMID: 28762873 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2017.1350163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menopausal problems are among the most prevalent and distressing problems following breast cancer treatment, with 70% women experiencing hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS). A working party was set up to support the development of new research into the management of these problems. METHODS We conducted surveys to explore the need as perceived by women with breast cancer and establish current UK management practices. A patient survey was conducted through a charity, Breast Cancer Care, and a health professional survey via the UK Breast Intergroup. The HFNS Problem Rating Scale was used, as well as specific questions addressing the aims of the study. RESULTS Six hundred and sixty-five patients responded and 185 health professionals. Twenty-eight percent women had considered stopping adjuvant endocrine treatment because of HFNS, yet 34% had never been asked about HFNS by any health professional. The most commonly offered interventions were SSRIs, such as venlafaxine, yet only 25% patients had been offered these drugs. Cognitive behavioural therapy was rarely suggested (2%) despite good evidence. DISCUSSION This study shows a lack of coherence in the management of HFNS in breast cancer survivors, which may lead to reduced adherence to adjuvant therapy. There is an urgent need to develop guidelines to support management of HFNS after breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Fenlon
- a College of Health and Human Sciences , Swansea University , Swansea , UK
| | | | | | - Pankaj Mistry
- d Warwick Medical School, Clinical Trials Unit , University of Warwick , Coventry, Coventry , UK
| | - Janet Dunn
- d Warwick Medical School, Clinical Trials Unit , University of Warwick , Coventry, Coventry , UK
| | | | | | - Myra S Hunter
- g Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience , Kings College London , London , UK
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Chien TJ, Hsu CH, Liu CY, Fang CJ. Effect of acupuncture on hot flush and menopause symptoms in breast cancer- A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180918. [PMID: 28829776 PMCID: PMC5568723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many breast cancer patients suffer from hot flush and medical menopause as side effects of treatment. Some patients undergo acupuncture, rather than hormone therapy, to relieve these symptoms, but the efficacy of acupuncture is uncertain. This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of acupuncture on hot flush and menopause symptoms in women with breast cancer. Methods A literature search was performed, following the PRISMA Statement and without language restrictions, of 7 databases from inception through March 2017. All selected studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that examined the effect of needle acupuncture on hot flush and menopause symptoms in patients with breast cancer. The methodological quality of these trials was assessed using Cochrane criteria, and meta-analysis software (RevMan 5.2) was used to analyze the data. Results We examined 844 breast cancer patients (average age: 58 years-old) from 13 RCTs. The trials had medium-to-high quality, based on the modified Jadad scale. The meta-analysis showed that acupuncture had no significant effect on the frequency and the severity of hot flush (p = 0.34; p = 0.33), but significantly ameliorated menopause symptoms (p = 0.009). None of the studies reported severe adverse events. Conclusions Acupuncture significantly alleviated menopause symptoms, but had no effect on hot flush. Breast cancer patients concerned about the adverse effects of hormone therapy should consider acupuncture. Further large-scale studies that also measure biomarkers or cytokines may help to elucidate the mechanism by which acupuncture alleviates menopause symptoms in patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Ju Chien
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Branch of Zhong-xing, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Branch of Linsen, Chinese Medicine and Kunming, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Chung-Hua Hsu
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Branch of Linsen, Chinese Medicine and Kunming, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yu Liu
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Branch of Linsen, Chinese Medicine and Kunming, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ju Fang
- Medical Library, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Choi TY, Kim JI, Lim HJ, Lee MS. Acupuncture for Managing Cancer-Related Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials. Integr Cancer Ther 2017; 16:135-146. [PMID: 27531549 PMCID: PMC5739128 DOI: 10.1177/1534735416664172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insomnia is a prominent complaint of cancer patients that can significantly affect their quality of life and symptoms related to sleep quality. Conventional drug approaches have a low rate of success in alleviating those suffering insomnia. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy of acupuncture in the management of cancer-related insomnia. METHODS A total of 12 databases were searched from their inception through January 2016 without language restriction. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs were included if acupuncture was used as the sole intervention or as an adjunct to another standard treatment for any cancer-related insomnia. The data extraction and the risk of bias assessments were performed by 2 independent reviewers. RESULTS Of the 90 studies screened, 6 RCTs were included. The risk of bias was generally unclear or low. Three RCTs showed equivalent effects on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and 2 RCTs showed the similar effects on response rate to those of conventional drugs at the end of treatment. The other RCT showed acupuncture was better than hormone therapy in the numbers of hours slept each night and number of times woken up each night. The 3 weeks of follow-up in 2 RCTs showed superior effects of acupuncture compared with conventional drugs, and a meta-analysis showed significant effects of acupuncture. Two RCTs tested the effects of acupuncture on cancer-related insomnia compared with sham acupuncture. One RCT showed favourable effects, while the other trial failed to do so. CONCLUSION There is a low level of evidence that acupuncture may be superior to sham acupuncture, drugs or hormones therapy. However, the number of studies and effect size are small for clinical significance. Further clinical trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Young Choi
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong In Kim
- Division of Acupuncture & Moxibustion Medicine, Kyung Hee Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Ja Lim
- Department of Nursing, Chodang University, Muan, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ, Balneaves LG, Carlson LE, Cohen MR, Deng G, Johnson JA, Mumber M, Seely D, Zick SM, Boyce LM, Tripathy D. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA Cancer J Clin 2017; 67:194-232. [PMID: 28436999 PMCID: PMC5892208 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 381] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Answer questions and earn CME/CNE Patients with breast cancer commonly use complementary and integrative therapies as supportive care during cancer treatment and to manage treatment-related side effects. However, evidence supporting the use of such therapies in the oncology setting is limited. This report provides updated clinical practice guidelines from the Society for Integrative Oncology on the use of integrative therapies for specific clinical indications during and after breast cancer treatment, including anxiety/stress, depression/mood disorders, fatigue, quality of life/physical functioning, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, lymphedema, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, pain, and sleep disturbance. Clinical practice guidelines are based on a systematic literature review from 1990 through 2015. Music therapy, meditation, stress management, and yoga are recommended for anxiety/stress reduction. Meditation, relaxation, yoga, massage, and music therapy are recommended for depression/mood disorders. Meditation and yoga are recommended to improve quality of life. Acupressure and acupuncture are recommended for reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Acetyl-L-carnitine is not recommended to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy due to a possibility of harm. No strong evidence supports the use of ingested dietary supplements to manage breast cancer treatment-related side effects. In summary, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of integrative therapies, especially mind-body therapies, as effective supportive care strategies during breast cancer treatment. Many integrative practices, however, remain understudied, with insufficient evidence to be definitively recommended or avoided. CA Cancer J Clin 2017;67:194-232. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Greenlee
- Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Member, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Melissa J DuPont-Reyes
- Doctoral Fellow, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- Associate Professor, College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Linda E Carlson
- Professor, Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Misha R Cohen
- Adjunct Professor, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine at California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA
- Clinic Director, Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Gary Deng
- Medical Director, Integrative Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jillian A Johnson
- Post-Doctoral Scholar, Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | | | - Dugald Seely
- Executive Director, Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Executive Director of Research, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suzanna M Zick
- Research Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Research Associate Professor, Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Lindsay M Boyce
- Research Informationist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Library, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Debu Tripathy
- Professor, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Enblom A. Patients' and physiotherapists' belief in and use of acupuncture for cancer-related symptoms. Acupunct Med 2017; 35:251-258. [PMID: 28442462 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2015-011007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is important to investigate attitudes to acupuncture, because therapists' and patients' expectations may affect the treatment outcome. AIM To explore the use of and belief in acupuncture among oncological physiotherapists and to explore patients' interest in receiving acupuncture during cancer therapy and their belief in its effectiveness. METHODS 522 patients (80% female, mean age 67 years) reported on their interest in receiving acupuncture for nausea during radiotherapy treatment; a subgroup (n=198) additionally disclosed their belief in the effectiveness of acupuncture. 117 Swedish oncological physiotherapists (96% female, mean age 48 years) answered a questionnaire regarding their use of and belief in acupuncture. RESULTS Of the patients initiating cancer therapy, 359 (69%) were interested in receiving acupuncture. The patients believed acupuncture to be effective for pain (79%), nausea (79%) and vasomotor symptoms (48%). Of the 117 physiotherapists, 66 (56%) practised acupuncture. Physiotherapists generally believed in the effectiveness of acupuncture. For pain, 89% believed that acupuncture was effective and 42% of them practised it. Similar responses were noted for chemotherapy-induced nausea (86% and 38%, respectively) and vasomotor symptoms (80% and 28%, respectively). Younger physiotherapists and patients were more likely to believe in the effectiveness of acupuncture compared with older ones. CONCLUSIONS More than two thirds of patients with cancer were interested in receiving acupuncture during therapy. Patients and oncological physiotherapists believed that acupuncture was effective for cancer pain, nausea and vasomotor symptoms. Further studies of acupuncture for cancer-related symptoms and of the effect of patients' and clinicians' therapeutic relationships, including treatment expectations, would be welcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Enblom
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Effects of non-pharmacological supportive care for hot flushes in breast cancer: a meta-analysis. Support Care Cancer 2017; 25:2335-2347. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3691-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Balneaves LG, Panagiotoglou D, Brazier ASA, Lambert LK, Porcino A, Forbes M, Van Patten C, Truant TLO, Seely D, Stacey D. Qualitative assessment of information and decision support needs for managing menopausal symptoms after breast cancer. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:4567-75. [PMID: 27278271 PMCID: PMC5031723 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE For breast cancer (BrCa) survivors, premature menopause can result from conventional cancer treatment. Due to limited treatment options, survivors often turn to complementary therapies (CTs), but struggle to make informed decisions. In this study, we identified BrCa survivors' CT and general information and decision-making needs related to menopausal symptoms. METHODS The needs assessment was informed by interpretive descriptive methodology. Focus groups with survivors (n = 22) and interviews with conventional (n = 12) and CT (n = 5) healthcare professionals (HCPs) were conducted at two Canadian urban cancer centers. Thematic, inductive analysis was conducted on the data. RESULTS Menopausal symptoms have significant negative impact on BrCa survivors. Close to 70 % of the sample were currently using CTs, including mind-body therapies (45.5 %), natural health products (NHPs) and dietary therapies (31.8 %), and lifestyle interventions (36.4 %). However, BrCa survivors reported inadequate access to information on the safety and efficacy of CT options. Survivors also struggled in their efforts to discuss CT with HCPs, who had limited time and information to support women in their CT decisions. Concise and credible information about CTs was required by BrCa survivors to support them in making informed and safe decisions about using CTs for menopausal symptom management. CONCLUSIONS High quality research is needed on the efficacy and safety of CTs in managing menopausal symptoms following BrCa treatment. Decision support strategies, such as patient decision aids (DAs), may help synthesize and translate evidence on CTs and promote shared decision-making between BrCa survivors and HCPs about the role of CTs in coping with menopause following cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda G Balneaves
- Centre for Integrative Medicine, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 144 College St., Room 737, Toronto, ON, M5S 3M2, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Dimitra Panagiotoglou
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison S A Brazier
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Leah K Lambert
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Antony Porcino
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Cheri Van Patten
- British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tracy L O Truant
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dugald Seely
- Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn Stacey
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Carlos L, da Cruz LAP, Leopoldo VC, de Campos FR, de Almeida AM, Silveira RCDCP. Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture versus Sham Acupuncture: a Systematic Review. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2016; 24:e2762. [PMID: 27533271 PMCID: PMC4996090 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.0647.2762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to identify and synthesize the evidence from randomized clinical trials that tested the effectiveness of traditional Chinese acupuncture in relation to sham acupuncture for the treatment of hot flashes in menopausal women with breast cancer. METHOD systematic review guided by the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration. Citations were searched in the following databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and LILACS. A combination of the following keywords was used: breast neoplasm, acupuncture, acupuncture therapy, acupuncture points, placebos, sham treatment, hot flashes, hot flushes, menopause, climacteric, and vasomotor symptoms. RESULTS a total of 272 studies were identified, five of which were selected and analyzed. Slight superiority of traditional acupuncture compared with sham acupuncture was observed; however, there were no strong statistical associations. CONCLUSIONS the evidence gathered was not sufficient to affirm the effectiveness of traditional acupuncture compared with sham acupuncture. OBJETIVO identificar e sintetizar as evidências oriundas de ensaios clínicos randomizados que testaram a efetividade da acupuntura tradicional chinesa em relação à sham acupuntura para o tratamento dos fogachos em mulheres com câncer de mama no climatério. MÉTODO revisão sistemática guiada pelas recomendações da Colaboração Cochrane. A busca foi realizada nas bases de dados: MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, CENTRAL Cochrane, CINAHL e LILACS. Adotou-se a combinação dos descritores: breast neoplasm, acupuncture, acupuncture therapy, acupuncture points, placebos, sham treatment, hot flashes, hot flushes, menopause, climacteric, vasomotor symptoms. RESULTADOS foram identificados 272 estudos, sendo 5 selecionados e analisados. Foi observada discreta superioridade da acupuntura tradicional em relação à sham, entretanto, sem fortes associações estatísticas. CONCLUSÕES as evidências obtidas não foram suficientes para afirmar quanto à efetividade da acupuntura tradicional em relação à sham. OBJETIVO Identificar y sintetizar la evidencia de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado que examinó la eficacia de la acupuntura tradicional en relación a la acupuntura sham para el tratamiento de sofocos en las mujeres menopáusicas con cáncer de mama. MÉTODO Revisión sistemática guiada por las recomendaciones de la Colaboración Cochrane. Las referencias bibliográficas se buscaron en las siguientes bases de datos: MEDLINE vía PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL y LILACS. Se utilizó una combinación de las siguientes palabras clave: breast neoplasm, acupuncture, acupuncture therapy, acupuncture points, placebos, sham treatment, hot flashes, hot flushes, menopause, climacteric, vasomotor symptoms. RESULTADOS Se identificó un total de 272 estudios, cinco de los cuales fueron seleccionados y analizados. Se encontró una ligera superioridad de la acupuntura tradicional comparada con la acupuntura sham; sin embargo, no se encontraron asociaciones estadísticas fuertes. CONCLUSIONES La evidencia obtenida no fue suficiente para confirmar la eficacia de la acupuntura tradicional comparada con la acupuntura sham.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Carlos
- Doctoral Student, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade
de São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão
Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lóris Aparecida Prado da Cruz
- Master's Student, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade
de São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão
Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cristina Leopoldo
- Master's Student, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade
de São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão
Preto, SP, Brazil. RN, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto,
Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Ribeiro de Campos
- Master's Student, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade
de São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão
Preto, SP, Brazil. RN, Fundação Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Franca, Franca, SP,
Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Almeida
- PhD, Associate Professor, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto,
Universidade de São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research
Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Renata Cristina de Campos Pereira Silveira
- PhD, Professor, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de
São Paulo, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão
Preto, SP, Brazil
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Nonhormonal management of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: 2015 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause 2016; 22:1155-72; quiz 1173-4. [PMID: 26382310 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update and expand The North American Menopause Society's evidence-based position on nonhormonal management of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms (VMS), previously a portion of the position statement on the management of VMS. METHODS NAMS enlisted clinical and research experts in the field and a reference librarian to identify and review available evidence. Five different electronic search engines were used to cull relevant literature. Using the literature, experts created a document for final approval by the NAMS Board of Trustees. RESULTS Nonhormonal management of VMS is an important consideration when hormone therapy is not an option, either because of medical contraindications or a woman's personal choice. Nonhormonal therapies include lifestyle changes, mind-body techniques, dietary management and supplements, prescription therapies, and others. The costs, time, and effort involved as well as adverse effects, lack of long-term studies, and potential interactions with medications all need to be carefully weighed against potential effectiveness during decision making. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians need to be well informed about the level of evidence available for the wide array of nonhormonal management options currently available to midlife women to help prevent underuse of effective therapies or use of inappropriate or ineffective therapies. Recommended: Cognitive-behavioral therapy and, to a lesser extent, clinical hypnosis have been shown to be effective in reducing VMS. Paroxetine salt is the only nonhormonal medication approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the management of VMS, although other selective serotonin reuptake/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentinoids, and clonidine show evidence of efficacy. Recommend with caution: Some therapies that may be beneficial for alleviating VMS are weight loss, mindfulness-based stress reduction, the S-equol derivatives of soy isoflavones, and stellate ganglion block, but additional studies of these therapies are warranted. Do not recommend at this time: There are negative, insufficient, or inconclusive data suggesting the following should not be recommended as proven therapies for managing VMS: cooling techniques, avoidance of triggers, exercise, yoga, paced respiration, relaxation, over-the-counter supplements and herbal therapies, acupuncture, calibration of neural oscillations, and chiropractic interventions. Incorporating the available evidence into clinical practice will help ensure that women receive evidence-based recommendations along with appropriate cautions for appropriate and timely management of VMS.
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Acupuncture for treating hot flashes in breast cancer patients: an updated meta-analysis. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:4895-4899. [PMID: 27497608 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for treatment of hot flash in women with breast cancer. METHODS The aspects considered in this study included searching for 12 data bases until April 2015 and consulting reference lists of reviews and related articles. Additional features studied comprised all articles on human patients with breast cancer treated with needle acupuncture with or without electrical stimulation for the treatment of hot flashes. The methodological quality was assessed using the modified Jadad score. RESULT The searches identified 12 relevant articles for inclusion. The meta-analysis without any subgroup or moderator failed to show favorable effects of acupuncture on reducing the frequency of hot flashes after intervention (n = 680, SMD = - 0.478, 95 % CI -0.397 to 0.241, P = 0.632) but exhibited marked heterogeneity of the results (Q value = 83.200, P = 0.000, I^2 = 83.17, τ^2 = 0.310). CONCLUSION The meta-analysis used had contradictory results and yielded no convincing evidence to suggest that acupuncture was an effective treatment of hot flash in patients with breast cancer. Multi-central studies including large sample size are required to investigate the efficiency of acupuncture for treating hot flash in patients with breast cancer.
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Acupuncture: could it become everyday practice in oncology? Contemp Oncol (Pozn) 2016; 20:119-23. [PMID: 27358589 PMCID: PMC4925730 DOI: 10.5114/wo.2016.60065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is a complementary and alternative medical treatment (CAM) which is increasingly used in the care of cancer patients. Traditionally derived from Chinese medicine, nowadays it is becoming a part of evidence-based oncology. The use of acupuncture in these patients has been recommended by the American Cancer Society (ACS) for the treatment of side effects associated with conventional cancer therapy and cancer-related ailments. A growing body of evidence supports the use of acupuncture in the treatment of cancer-induced pain and chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Also other indications, such as xerostomia, fatigue, hot flashes, anxiety and peripheral neuropathy, are being constantly evaluated. This article summarizes the most important discoveries related to the possible usefulness of this method in contemporary oncology. Emphasis is placed on the results of randomized controlled trials with an adequate level of evidence. However, explanation of the mechanisms responsible for these effects requires confirmation in further studies with an adequate level of evidence. In future, acupuncture may become an interesting and valuable addition to conventional medicine.
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Acupoint stimulation, massage therapy and expressive writing for breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Med 2016; 27:87-101. [PMID: 27515882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Researches have accumulated using non-pharmacologic interventions including acupoint stimulation, massage therapy and expressive writing to manage breast cancer-related symptoms. Results from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) can get contradictory. OBJECTIVE A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the effects on the quality of life, negative emotions and disease-related symptoms among women with breast cancer. METHODS Two independent researchers performed a structured search using data sources including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PubMed and PsychINFO from the beginning of time until the first week of January 2015. A total of 23 acupoint stimulation, massage therapy and expressive writing RCTs were included in the review. RESULTS The study showed that no single intervention could be put under the spotlight exhibiting an overall effective result on all measured outcomes; however, looking into each one in detail shows different results in specific outcomes. Among the three interventions, acupoint stimulation has a treatment effect for general pain (MD=-1.46, 95% CI=-2.38 to -0.53) and fatigue (MD=-2.22, 95% CI=-3.68 to -0.77), massage therapy has a treatment effect for anxiety (MD=-0.50, 95% CI=-0.77 to -0.24), and expressive writing has a treatment effect for quality of life (MD=7.18, 95% CI=0.38 to 13.98). The measurement other outcomes showed either ineffective or equivocal results. CONCLUSION Non-pharmacologic interventions including acupoint stimulation, massage therapy and expressive writing have an effect on a middle-age woman with breast cancer. However, because of limitations, the seemingly promising results should be interpreted with caution.
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Complementary and integrative medicine for breast cancer patients - Evidence based practical recommendations. Breast 2016; 28:37-44. [PMID: 27203402 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2016.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
On average half of the breast cancer patients' population uses complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) therapies and many of them would like to receive information on CIM from their conventional treatment team. However, often they don't feel comfortable in discussing CIM related questions, with their conventional treatment team, because they think they don't have enough expertise and available time to deal with this topic. Furthermore, information on the evidence of CIM is not easily accessible and the available information is not always reliable. The purpose of the current paper is to provide: 1) an overview about the CIM interventions that have shown positive effects in breast cancer patients and might be useful in supportive cancer care, 2) practical guidance on how to choose and find a qualified referral to a CIM treatment: 3) recommendations on how these interventions could be integrated into Breast Cancer Centers and which factors should be taken into consideration in this setting. This paper takes available CIM practice guidelines for cancer patients and previous research on CIM implementation models into account. There are CIM interventions that have shown a potential to reduce symptoms of cancer or cancer treatments in breast cancer patients and the vast majority uses a non-pharmacological approach and have a good potential for implementation. Nevertheless, further and more rigorous research is still needed.
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Eisenhardt S, Fleckenstein J. Traditional Chinese medicine valuably augments therapeutic options in the treatment of climacteric syndrome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 294:193-200. [PMID: 27040419 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Climacteric syndrome refers to recurring symptoms such as hot flashes, chills, headache, irritability and depression. This is usually experienced by menopausal women and can be related to a hormonal reorganization in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, originating 1000s of years ago, above-mentioned symptoms can be interpreted on the basis of the philosophic diagnostic concepts, such as the imbalance of Yin and Yang, the Zang-Fu and Basic substances (e.g. Qi, Blood and Essence). These concepts postulate balance and harmonization as the principle aim of a treatment. In this context, it is not astounding that one of the most prominent ancient textbooks dating back to 500-200 BC, Huang di Neijing: The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine gives already first instructions for diagnosis and therapy of climacteric symptoms. For therapy, traditional Chinese medicine comprises five treatment principles: Chinese herbal medicine, TuiNa (a Chinese form of manual therapy), nutrition, activity (e.g. QiGong) and acupuncture (being the most widespread form of treatment used in Europe). This review provides an easy access to the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine particularly regarding to climacteric syndrome and also focuses on current scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Eisenhardt
- Department of TCM/Acupuncture, Institute of Complementary Medicine (IKOM), University Bern, Personalhaus 4 Inselspital, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.,University Hospital of Psychiatry, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Fleckenstein
- Department of TCM/Acupuncture, Institute of Complementary Medicine (IKOM), University Bern, Personalhaus 4 Inselspital, 3010, Bern, Switzerland. .,Department of Sports Medicine, Institute of Sports Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Marshall-McKenna R, Morrison A, Stirling L, Hutchison C, Rice AM, Hewitt C, Paul L, Rodger M, Macpherson IR, McCartney E. A randomised trial of the cool pad pillow topper versus standard care for sleep disturbance and hot flushes in women on endocrine therapy for breast cancer. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:1821-9. [PMID: 26446702 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-2967-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Quality of life in women receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy for breast cancer (BC) may be impaired by hot flushes and night sweats. The cool pad pillow topper (CPPT) is a commercial product, promoted to improve quality of sleep disrupted by hot flushes. This study aimed to identify if the CPPT reduces severity of sleep disturbance by minimising effects of hot flushes. METHODS This randomised phase II trial, recruited women with BC, on adjuvant endocrine therapy, experiencing hot flushes and insomnia. Participants were randomised (stratified by baseline sleep efficiency score (SES) and menopausal status) to the intervention arm (CPPT + standard care) or control arm (standard care). Participants completed Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) questionnaires and fortnightly sleep/hot flush diaries (where responses were averaged over 2-week periods). The primary endpoint was change in average SES from -2 to 0 weeks to 2 to 4 weeks. RESULTS Seventy-four pre- (68.9 %) and post-menopausal (31.1 %) women were recruited. Median age was 49.5 years. Endocrine therapies included tamoxifen (93.2 %). Median SES at weeks 2 to 4 improved in both arms but the increase on the intervention arm was almost twice that on the control arm (p = 0.024). There were significantly greater reductions in hot flushes and HADS depression in the intervention arm (p = 0.09 and p = 0.036, respectively). There were no significant differences in FACT-B or HADS anxiety. CONCLUSION This study supports the use of the CPPT as an aid to reduce sleep disturbance and the frequency/severity of hot flushes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Marshall-McKenna
- Nursing & Health Care School, University of Glasgow, 59 Oakfield Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8LL, UK.
| | - A Morrison
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - L Stirling
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - C Hutchison
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - A M Rice
- Nursing & Health Care School, University of Glasgow, 59 Oakfield Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8LL, UK
| | - C Hewitt
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - L Paul
- Nursing & Health Care School, University of Glasgow, 59 Oakfield Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8LL, UK
| | - M Rodger
- CRUK CTU Glasgow, Institute of Cancer Sciences, The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, University of Glasgow, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - I R Macpherson
- The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - E McCartney
- CRUK CTU Glasgow, Institute of Cancer Sciences, The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, University of Glasgow, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
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Johns C, Seav SM, Dominick SA, Gorman JR, Li H, Natarajan L, Mao JJ, Irene Su H. Informing hot flash treatment decisions for breast cancer survivors: a systematic review of randomized trials comparing active interventions. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2016; 156:415-426. [PMID: 27015968 PMCID: PMC4838539 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-016-3765-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Patient-centered decision making about hot flash treatments often incorporates a balance of efficacy and side effects in addition to patient preference. This systematic review examines randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing at least two non-hormonal hot flash treatments in breast cancer survivors. In July 2015, PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched for RCTs comparing active, non-hormonal hot flash treatments in female breast cancer survivors. Thirteen trials were included after identifying 906 potential studies. Four trials were dose comparison studies of pharmacologic treatments citalopram, venlafaxine, gabapentin, and paroxetine. Hot flash reduction did not differ by tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitor use. Citalopram 10, 20, and 30 mg daily had comparable outcomes. Venlafaxine 75 mg daily improved hot flashes without additional side effects from higher dosing. Gabapentin 900 mg daily improved hot flashes more than 300 mg. Paroxetine 10 mg daily had fewer side effects than 20 mg. Among four trials comparing different pharmacologic treatments, venlafaxine alleviated hot flash symptoms faster than clonidine; participants preferred venlafaxine over gabapentin. Five trials compared pharmacologic to non-pharmacologic treatments. Acupuncture had similar efficacy to venlafaxine and gabapentin but may have longer durability after completing treatment and fewer side effects. We could not perform a pooled meta-analysis because outcomes were not reported in comparable formats. Clinical trial data on non-hormonal hot flash treatments provide comparisons of hot flash efficacy and other patient important outcomes to guide clinical management. Clinicians can use the information to help patients select hot flash interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Johns
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0401, USA
| | - Susan M Seav
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive #0901, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0901, USA
| | - Sally A Dominick
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive #0901, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0901, USA
| | - Jessica R Gorman
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331-6406, USA
| | - Hongying Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive #0901, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0901, USA
| | - Loki Natarajan
- Department of Family Medicine & Public Health, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive #0901, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0901, USA
| | - Jun James Mao
- The Bendheim Center for Integrative Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York City, NY, 10021, USA
| | - H Irene Su
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive #0901, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0901, USA.
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