Mechanism and application of acupuncture and electro-acupuncture associated with cancer therapy

Abstract

The rapid progress in cancer treatment, along with the increase in cure and control rates, has led to the gradual acceptance of cancer as a chronic disease. Cancer treatment is comprehensive and long-term. However, cancer symptoms and treatment side effects can hinder patients' quality of life and adherence to treatment, ultimately impacrefting their long-term survival. Acupuncture (AC) and electro-acupuncture (EA) have been widely used to treat various diseases. AC and EA have demonstrated their ability to relieve symptoms and side effects related to cancer treatment. The review provides a brief overview of the historical lineage and basic principles of AC treatment, as well as a detailed exploration of the mechanisms and clinical applications of AC and EA to relieve cancer symptoms and treatment side effects. AC and EA can play a therapeutic role by regulating systems of nervous, endocrine, immune and so on. Clinical studies have demonstrated that AC and EA can effectively relieve pain, postoperative ileus, and other symptoms. The safety of AC and EA has been tested worldwide. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and future research directions for AC and EA in the field of cancer treatment.