Effectiveness of Ear Acupuncture to Improve Insomnia in Women With Breast Cancer

Effectiveness of Ear Acupuncture to Improve Insomnia in Women With Breast Cancer: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this clinical study is to investigate the extent to which ear acupuncture has an effect on insomnia in women with breast cancer. It will be investigated whether changes in sleep quality, fatigue, quality of life, stress, and psychological well-being can be achieved. In addition, a proinflammatory cytokine will be meassured.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Histological diagnosed non-metastatic breast CAs (TNM stage I-III)
• Existing insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or sleeping through on at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months) according to the diagnostic criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5).
• willingness to participate in the study (at least 8 out of 10 treatments)
• Signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Ongoing or planned chemotherapy, radiation, follow-up treatment or reconstructive plastic surgery during the study period
• Severe physical or psychopharmacologically treated psychiatric comorbidity that prevents a patient from participating in the study
• Pregnancy
• Participation in other clinical trials with behavioural, psychological or complementary medical interventions during the study period
• Regular use of barbiturates, antidepressants or other sleep-inducing drugs, drug abusus, alcoholism