Using ear acupressure to help manage appetite and weight in cancer patients
A Randomized Controlled Trial Testing the Effects of an Acupressure Intervention on Appetite and Weight in Patients With Gastric, Esophageal, and Pancreatic Cancer: A Pilot and Feasibility Study
This study is testing if ear acupressure can help cancer patients with stomach, esophagus, or pancreas issues improve their appetite and manage their weight better than just their usual care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 66 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Washington Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Seattle, Washington) |
| Trial ID | NCT05911243 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of auricular acupressure as a method to improve appetite and weight in patients with stage II-IV gastric, esophageal, or pancreatic cancer. Participants are randomized into two groups: one receiving auricular acupressure alongside their usual care, and the other receiving only usual care. The study aims to address cancer anorexia, which can lead to significant weight loss and negatively impact quality of life. Blood samples will be collected from all participants to assess various health metrics throughout the study.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with stage II-IV gastric, esophageal, or pancreatic cancer who have a low appetite score.
Not a fit: Patients actively using appetite-stimulating medications or those with a history of eating disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve appetite and weight management in cancer patients, enhancing their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with auricular acupressure in improving symptoms related to cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-65 years of age * Stage II-IV gastric, esophageal, or pancreatic cancer * Appetite score on visual analog scale ≤ 70/100 * At least 60 days of planned systemic treatment, whether already initiated or scheduled to be initiated * Access to phone and electronic device for study contacts and questionnaires * Willing and able to attend 4 in-person auricular acupressure treatments at the Fred Hutch South Lake Union Clinic * Willing and able to perform 4 at-home self-applied treatments of auricular acupressure * Participants must not have received acupressure or acupuncture for low appetite within last 30 days * Participants must not be actively using corticosteroids, mirtazapine (Remeron), olanzapine (Zyprexa), or Marinol for appetite stimulation at baseline * Participants must be able to intake food orally and not require sole or supplemental intravenous nutrition at baseline * Participants must not have a history of physiological eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa) in the last 3 years * Participants must not have a current known or diagnosed immunodeficiency * Participants must have an intact auricular pinna * Able to understand and willing to sign written informed consent in English
Where this trial is running
Seattle, Washington
- Fred Hutch/University of Washington Cancer Consortium — Seattle, Washington, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Blake Langley — Fred Hutch/University of Washington Cancer Consortium
- Study coordinator: Blake Langley
- Email: blangley@fredhutch.org
- Phone: 206-667-3481
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.