Acupuncture Relieves Side Effects from Breast Cancer Treatment

In a pooled analysis of three clinical trials, acupuncture significantly reduced hot flashes and other hormonal side effects of endocrine therapy taken by women with breast cancer. The analysis of the multinational data was published in Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. Endocrine therapy, which is crucial for blocking hormone-driven cancer growth, often causes uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, leading some women to stop treatment early, increasing their risk of cancer recurrence. To explore acupuncture’s effectiveness in relieving these symptoms, researchers from the United States, China, and South Korea conducted trials that included 158 women who had stage 0–III breast cancer. These women were divided into two groups: One received acupuncture twice a week for 10 weeks (referred to as immediate acupuncture), followed by 10 weeks without acupuncture, while the other group received standard care for 10 weeks before switching to once-weekly acupuncture (delayed acupuncture). The results showed that 64% of women receiving immediate acupuncture reported fewer and less severe hot flashes, compared with just 18% in the delayed group. No side effects from acupuncture were reported. The researchers suggest that acupuncture can help manage side effects, making it easier for patients to continue their life-saving medication. Researchers recommended that patients interested in acupuncture start with a trial period to see if it reduces their symptoms, and if successful, continue with regular sessions during their treatment. 

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