Acupuncture for Shortness of Breath in Cancer Patients

Acupuncture for Shortness of Breath in Cancer Patients

The purpose of this study is to determine whether acupuncture is effective in relieving shortness of breath among breast and lung cancer patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of local or metastatic breast or lung cancer
• Shortness of breath with onset after cancer diagnosis
• Life expectancy of at least 4 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior acupuncture
• Other conditions suspected of causing shortness of breath, such as congestive heart failure, sarcoid disease, pneumonia, or obesity
• No chest wall deformity
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Pulmonary vascular disease
• Anemia
• Uncontrolled pain or infection
• Heart valve dysfunction