Acupuncture for cancer symptoms: Clinical application and longitudinal impact a retrospective observational real-world data study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture in oncology offer strong internal validity but limited generalizability. Real-world evidence is needed to assess feasibility, effectiveness, and adherence in routine practice.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of real-world data from cancer patients receiving group Traditional Chinese acupuncture (ACP) in an outpatient oncology setting (2015-2022). Symptoms (anxiety, fatigue, hot flashes, neuropathy, pain, sleep) were rated on a 0-10 numeric scale before each session. Clinical improvement was defined as a ≥ 1-point decrease in severity.

Results

A total of 2,239 patients underwent ACP (83% female; mean age 57 ± 12; 57% breast cancer). Common symptoms included pain (61%), sleep issues (50%), fatigue

SUBMITTER: Lasheen W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855393 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature