Electroacupuncture for Chemotherapy-Related Cognitive Impairment

Electroacupuncture to Prevent Chemotherapy-Related Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Breast Cancer

The objective of this trial is to evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture compared to sham acupuncture in preventing CRCI among breast cancer patients scheduled to undergo chemotherapy.

Participants will be randomized to receive either acupuncture or sham acupuncture treatment. Both treatments will be administered twice a week, starting one week before chemotherapy and continuing throughout the chemotherapy period. The study outcomes will be evaluated at three time points: baseline (before acupuncture and chemotherapy), during chemotherapy (one day before the third chemotherapy cycle), after chemotherapy (21 days after the last chemotherapy cycle). Each cycle typically lasts for 4 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Newly diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer
2. Scheduled to undergo chemotherapy
3. Aged between 18 and 75 years
4. MoCA score ≥ 26
5. Voluntary agreement to participate in the study and sign an informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Demonstrated tumor metastasis or recurrence
2. Had a prior history of chemotherapy
3. Reported a history of brain tumors, head trauma or stroke
4. Were diagnosed with cognitive function-impaired disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease
5. Were unable to cooperate with testing for any reasons
6. Had severe hepatic or renal insufficiency
7. Had hemorrhagic disorders, including von Willebrand disease, or were taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication
8. Had an implanted cardiac pacemaker
9. Had a history of alcohol abuse or drug addiction
10. Were participating in another interventional trial