Acupuncture Can Diminish Hot Flashes In Breast Cancer Patients, New Study Concludes

According to a recent study, the practice of acupuncture can help reduce hot flashes in breast cancer patients, and may potentially increase a woman’s sex drive while improving her sense of well-being.

The study, which will be published in this week’s Journal of Oncology, suggests that acupuncture, when compared to traditional drug therapy, is more effective in reducing hot flashes and night sweats for women receiving hormone therapy for breast cancer treatment.

"Acupuncture offers patients a safe, effective and durable treatment option for hot flashes, something that affects the majority of breast cancer survivors," said lead author Eleanor Walker. "Compared to drug therapy, acupuncture actually has benefits, as opposed to more side effects."

Respondents also reported that acupuncture improved their clarity of thought and increased their energy.

Although there are very few side effects associated with acupuncture, it is not for everyone. People who are pregnant, have bleeding disorders and people with pacemakers should consult a doctor before submitting to the procedure, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The American Cancer Society reports that breast cancer produces very few symptoms when the tumor is small and most treatable, and that it is very important for women to follow very strict screening guidelines for early detection.