Using acupressure to reduce fatigue in young cancer survivors
A Pilot Study of Self-Administered Acupressure for Fatigue Among Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Survivors
This study is testing if a six-week acupressure program can help young cancer survivors feel less tired.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06442891 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the feasibility of a six-week self-administered relaxing acupressure intervention aimed at reducing cancer-related fatigue in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving actual acupressure through a mobile app and an AcuWand, and the other receiving sham acupressure. The study will also explore participants' satisfaction and acceptability of the intervention through interviews. The primary goal is to assess the feasibility of conducting a larger randomized controlled trial based on the findings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 who are at least three months post-cancer treatment and report clinically relevant fatigue.
Not a fit: Patients with untreated anemia, mood disorders, or those planning to start new treatments for fatigue during the study may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a non-pharmacological method to alleviate fatigue in young cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that relaxing acupressure can improve cancer-related fatigue in adults, suggesting potential for success in this younger population.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 15 - 39 years old * At least three months post cancer treatment (e.g., surgery, radiation or chemotherapy). Participants receiving maintenance hormonal or targeted therapies will be allowed to enroll as determined by the study investigator * Report clinically relevant fatigue in the past seven days (Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems \[PROMIS\] Fatigue 4a scores ≥ 55) * Speak / read English * CRF started at or after the diagnosis of cancer * Completed cancer treatment within the past five years Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of untreated anemia, mood disorder, or hypothyroidism * Plan to begin new pharmacological, psychological, or other treatments (i.e., physical therapy or dietary supplements) for CRF during the study. Although, participants may continue usual treatments for CRF if the treatments were initiated at least eight weeks prior to study enrollment, and the dose has not changed * Plan to become pregnant or lactating during the study period * Received acupressure or acupuncture in the past year
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan
- University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robert Knoerl — University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.