Acupuncture for Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether acupuncture can improve memory and concentration issues in individuals treated for cancer. Participants will receive either real acupuncture or a sham (fake) version to compare results. The trial seeks participants diagnosed with breast, colorectal, prostate, or gynecological cancer who have experienced memory or concentration problems since their diagnosis. Those who often feel their mind isn't as sharp as before cancer treatment might find this trial suitable. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you should not have started or changed medications like sleep aids, sedatives, or antidepressants in the past 8 weeks.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that acupuncture is generally safe for cancer patients. Studies have found it somewhat effective in managing various symptoms in cancer patients and survivors. Notably, it can help with thinking and memory issues without major safety concerns.
Some patients have experienced positive results when acupuncture is used alongside traditional Chinese medicine, although debate remains about its overall effectiveness. Consistent reports of serious side effects are absent, indicating that acupuncture is well-tolerated.
This treatment is currently in Phase 2 trials, meaning earlier phases confirmed its safety. This phase focuses more on effectiveness while still monitoring safety closely. Overall, acupuncture appears to be a safe option for those considering this trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about acupuncture for cancer-related cognitive impairment because it offers a non-pharmacological approach to managing symptoms. Unlike traditional treatments like cognitive rehabilitation or medication, acupuncture may help improve cognitive function by stimulating specific points on the body, potentially enhancing neural activity and blood flow to the brain. This method is appealing as it avoids the side effects associated with drugs and provides a holistic option for patients seeking alternative therapies. Additionally, the use of sham acupuncture as a comparator helps to accurately assess its true efficacy, offering hope for a new avenue of symptom relief for cancer survivors.
What evidence suggests that acupuncture might be an effective treatment for cancer-related cognitive impairment?
Research has shown that acupuncture, one of the treatments studied in this trial, might help with thinking and memory problems caused by cancer and its treatments. Studies have found that acupuncture can improve both measurable and self-reported thinking skills in cancer patients. In breast cancer patients, acupuncture has effectively addressed these issues, possibly due to its effects on brain functions. Another study found that electroacupuncture, a type of acupuncture using electrical currents, reduced memory and thinking complaints in cancer patients. While acupuncture is a newer option, increasing evidence suggests it can benefit cognitive issues related to cancer. Participants in this trial may receive either acupuncture or sham acupuncture, which serves as a control to evaluate the treatment's effectiveness.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jun Mao, MD, MSCE
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults over 18 who've finished initial cancer treatment at least a month ago and feel their memory or concentration has worsened since their diagnosis. They must not have active disease, recent acupuncture for cognition, certain psychiatric disorders, dementia, Parkinson's, or recent medication changes.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive acupuncture or sham acupuncture to assess its impact on cognitive difficulties
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- 16 week waiting period + optional Acupuncture
- Acupuncture
- Sham Acupuncture
Acupuncture is already approved in United States, European Union, China for the following indications:
- Pain management
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Neuropathy
- Pain management
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Pain management
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Neuropathy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor