Acupuncture Can Help With This Side Effect of Cancer Treatment

This week, a study was released that showed supportive evidence that acupuncture can help those suffering from dry mouth — a common side effect of many cancer treatments.

As US News & World Report reports, our of over 300 patients who were undergoing radiation treatment for head and/or neck cancers in both the United States and China, those who had regular acupuncture treatments had fewer symptoms of dry mouth (also known as xerostomia) than those who didn't have acupuncture.

Those patients who were a part of the placebo group received “sham” or “fake” acupuncture and experienced about the same relief as the no-acupuncture group, which is what we would expect. These individuals received treatment at a spot that is not known to help with dry mouth, treatment using spots that have no known therapeutic benefits, and also placebo needles.

After one year, results showed that 35% of acupuncture patients had dry mouth, as opposed to 48% of those given fake acupuncture and 55% of those who didn't get acupuncture.

US World & News Report consulted lead investigator Lorenzo Cohen, director of integrative medicine at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. who said, "Dry mouth is a serious concern for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. The condition can affect up to 80% of patients by the end of radiation treatment,"

He added, "The symptoms severely impact the quality of life and oral health, and current treatments have limited benefits.”

We are excited for these results that further prove the seemingly endless benefits of acupuncture treatment, and we are honored to help those going through cancer treatments, and any other health issues as well..