Full Title
Acupuncture for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients: (AcuAYA)Purpose
Many people who get chemotherapy experience a loss of their period (amenorrhea). They may have menopause-like symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, and anxiety. The condition also increases the risk of infertility.
There is no treatment for period loss in people getting chemotherapy for cancer. Researchers are assessing acupuncture to treat amenorrhea caused by chemotherapy in young adults with cancer.
Acupuncture is a medical technique that involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific areas on the body. The goal is to promote health and well-being. Studies have shown that acupuncture may help recover the function of the ovaries and balance sex hormone levels.
If you join this study, you will be randomly assigned to one of these groups:
- The acupuncture group, who will have 12 acupuncture treatments over 12 weeks.
- The control group, who will be put on a waitlist. They will be able to have the same acupuncture treatment as the acupuncture group after a 16-week waiting period.
Who Can Join
To join this study, there are a few conditions. You must:
- Be English-speaking and under age 40.
- Had stage 1, 2, or 3 cancer diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 39.
- Had been having regular periods at the time of your cancer diagnosis.
- Have completed chemotherapy within the past year.
- Have not had a period for at least 3 months after finishing chemotherapy.
Contact
For more information about this study, please contact the Clinical Research Coordinator at medacuaya@mskcc.org or 646-449-1074.