Short summary

This study examines how integrating holistic acupuncture and acupressure into oncology care affects quality of life, well-being, and nausea in chemotherapy patients. Ninety participants with persistent nausea despite standard antiemetic treatment will be included. Using a crossover design with questionnaires and qualitative interviews, the study explores patient experiences and the potential benefits of holistic approaches in cancer care.

Rationale

Experience shows that some patients undergoing chemotherapy find that antiemetic medication does not adequately prevent nausea, which negatively affects their quality of life and well-being. Therefore, it is important to explore supplementary methods that, in combination with standard antiemetic treatment, may help prevent nausea and enhance quality of life for these patients. Acupuncture combined with acupressure is a potential complementary approach to medical antiemetic therapy. We hypothesize that acupuncture combined with acupressure can improve quality of life and well-being in patients who continue to experience nausea despite receiving recommended antiemetic medication. However, current knowledge in this area remains limited. This project therefore aims to investigate whether acupuncture and acupressure, in combination with antiemetic medication, can enhance patients' quality of life and well-being.

Description of the cohort

The holistic acupuncture and acupressure treatment is being tested in patients who experience a lack of effect from the medical treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea. In addition, there are the following inclusion criteria: Patients who: - are over 18 years old - are undergoing chemotherapy and experience nausea despite following the medical nausea regimen - can speak and understand Danish - have given written and verbal consent - receive treatment every 14 days. - have a minimum of 2 chemotherapy treatment cycles planned at the time of inclusion. Exclusion criteria: Patients: - with brain metastases - with performance status > 2

Data and biological material

Questionarie data and interview

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Oncology, Vejle Hospital

• Nanna Nordestgaard Bille

Department of Oncology, Vejle Hospital