Skip to content

Classical forms of acupuncture?

Page last modified on: October 2, 2008
Question from Fherdrich: Is there evidence-based support for classical forms of acupuncture treatment for people living with cancer?
Answers —Raymond Chang, M.D.: Interesting question because it specifies classical forms. There are many forms of acupuncture, true—there are classical forms and deviations. We can consider acupuncture as a whole acupuncture. I generally don't tell my patients to do acupuncture unless for specific reasons: they have a symptom, pain or nausea, or if they might feel better with it. The Chinese don't use it that way either.

There is no evidence that acupuncture can improve survival in cancer. It is not used to treat cancer; it is used to feel better from certain complications from the disease or the treatment. For someone living with cancer but who otherwise has no symptoms from cancer or from cancer treatment, I don't necessarily see the need for acupuncture. Some people just do it because they like it.
Beth DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.: Many patients seek acupuncture to help alleviate the side effects of cancer and as a part of overall wellness. Although the acupuncture is not intended as a cure or an alternative to treatments they are receiving, it can have a very positive effect on their overall well-being.
Raymond Chang, M.D.: It is useful. I tell my cancer patients that there are so-called quality of life or feel better treatments, and there are "live-longer" treatments. They are not necessarily mutually inclusive. Chemo may extend life but certainly does not make people feel better. Likewise, things that make people feel better may not improve their survival. So patients sometimes get mixed up. It depends on why you're using something. I absolutely agree that acupuncture, whether you're sick or not, will make you feel better. It's very relaxing.

On Wednesday, September 21, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Traditional Chinese Medicine. Raymond Chang, M.D. and moderator Beth Baughman Dupree, M.D., F.A.C.S. answered your questions about how to discuss Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with your cancer doctor.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

A production of LiveWorld, Inc.
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

Email Updates

Stay informed about current research, online events, and more.

Please leave this field empty

Meet the Experts

Raymond Chang, M.D. is an internationally respected physician-acupuncturist uniquely trained in traditional Chinese medicine as well as contemporary Western medicine, and he is an acknowledged pioneer-specialist in integrative programs for cancer, infertility, and other difficult-to-treat conditions.

Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a general surgeon. Her clinical practice is located at Holy Redeemer Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center.

Back to top

Breastcancer.org 7 East Lancaster Avenue, 3rd Floor Ardmore, PA 19003

Learn more about our commitment to your privacy

© 2009 Breastcancer.org - All rights reserved.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.