Cancer-related Cognitive Function Acupuncture Pilot Study (CLARITY
This study is being done to explore whether acupuncture can improve cognitive difficulties in patients diagnosed with cancer.
• English-speaking
• Age 18 ≥ years old
• Diagnosis (breast, colorectal, prostate or gynecological cancer)
• Completed initial cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy) at least one month prior to study enrollment (patients receiving maintenance cancer treatment with hormonal or targeted therapies are permitted)
• Must report moderate or greater perceived CD as indicated by a score of quite a bit or very much on at least one of the two items that specifically assess concentration (item #20) and memory (item #25) on the EORTC QLQ-C30 instrument (version 3.0)
• Must indicate that their cognitive functions have worsened since their cancer diagnosis by replying Yes to all of the following questions:
• Do you think or feel that your memory or mental ability has gotten worse since your cancer diagnosis?
• Do you think your mind isn't as sharp now as it was before your cancer diagnosis?
• Do you feel like these problems have made it harder to function on your job or take care of things around the home?
• Must be willing to adhere to all study-related procedures, including randomization to one of the 2 possible choices: acupuncture or sham acupuncture